Definitions for "Hexametaphosphate"
A chemical that is used as a sequestering agent. Normally, a metal (M) hexametaphosphate would have the chemical formula (MPO3)6, in which the cyclic metal metaphosphate is based on rings of alternating phosphorus and oxygen atoms. The so-called sodium hexametaphosphate, however, is probably a polymer with the formula (NaPO3)n, in which n is between 10 and 20. Hexametaphosphate is added to water to increase the solubility of certain ions and to deter precipitation of certain chemicals.