top of page
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a very reactive element, it is so reactive, when in contact with oxygen, it catches fire immediately. It combines with the halogens really easily, because of this, it is stored underwater in chemical laboratories. There are 2 different types of Phosphorus:White(toxic) and Red(non-toxic) Phosphorus.
*White Phosphorus a poisonous waxy solid and can cause severe burns when in contact of skin
Who discovered it:Henning Brandt
When was it discovered: 1669
Symbol:P
Group:5
Row:3
Number of Protons(+):15
Number of Neutrons:16
Number of Electrons(-):15
Atomic Mass:30.973762 u ± 0.000002 u
Electron Configuration:[Ne]3s 3p
3
2
Uses: Red Phosphorus can be seen at the side of the matchbox(where you strike the matches against to light it up) while white phosphorus is usually used in flares
bottom of page