phosphorus [P]

Introduction

From the Greek phosphoros meaning bringer of light. Discovered in 1669 by German physician Henning Brandt.

Occurrence

• widely distributed in many minerals
• occurs esp as phosphates
• phosphate rock containing apatite is an important source

Characteristics

• nonmetallic element of the nitrogen family
• ordinary phosphorus is a waxy white soft solid
• white, red & black allotropes
• red phosphorus is powdery
• phosphorus ignites spontaneously in air
• in damp air, phosphorus glows in the dark by chemiluminescence
• reacts vigorously with all halogens

Uses

• essential component of living systems (phosphates)
• fertilizers
• insecticides
• detergents
• foods

More general terms

• chemical element

More specific terms

• phosphorus-32 P[32]

Additional terms

• inorganic phosphate; inorganic phosphorous
• periodic table
• phospho-anhydride
• phosphoester

Component of

• phosphorus/potassium

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=123286