In the process of phosphate mining, chemicals called flotation agents help separate the phosphate minerals from the other minerals that are present. It is very important for making phosphate fertilizers, which are needed for crops to grow well. Picking the right floating agents is very important because they determine how well, how much, and how negatively the process affects the environment. These three types of flotation agents for phosphate are commonly used for phosphate ores: collectors, frothers, and modifiers.