Facts about the
Definition of the Element Phosphorus
The Element Phosphorus is defined as...
A highly reactive, poisonous, non-metallic element occurring
naturally in phosphates, especially apatite, and existing in three
allotropic forms, white (or sometimes yellow), red, violet and
black. An essential constituent of protoplasm, it is used in
safety matches, pyrotechnics, incendiary shells, and fertilizers
and to protect metal surfaces from corrosion.
Interesting Facts
about the Origin and Meaning of the element name Phosphorus
What are the origins of the word Phosphorus ?
The name originates from the Greek words phos meaning light and
phoros meaning bearer.
Facts about the
Classification of the Element Phosphorus
Phosphorus is classified as an element in the 'Non-metals' section
which can be located in groups 14,15 and 16 of the Periodic Table.
Non-metals are not easily able to conduct electricity or heat and
do not reflect light . Non-metallic elements are very brittle, and
cannot be rolled into wires or pounded into sheets. Non-metallic
elements exist, at room temperature, in two of the three states of
matter : gases (such as oxygen) and solids (such as carbon).
Brief Facts about the
Discovery and History of the Element Phosphorus
Phosphorus was discovered by Hennig Brand in 1669
Occurrence of the
element Phosphorus in the Atmosphere
Occurs naturally in phosphates, especially apatite, and existing
in three allotropic forms
Found in USA, Russia, Africa
Common Uses of
Phosphorus
Safety matches
Pyrotechnics
Incendiary shells
Fertilizers
Steel production
Incendiary bombs
Pyrotechnics
Pesticides
The Properties of the Element Phosphorus
Name of Element : Phosphorus
Symbol of Element : P
Atomic Number of Phosphorus : 15
Atomic Mass: 30.97376 amu
Melting Point: 44.1 °C - 317.25 °K
Boiling Point: 280.0 °C - 553.15 °K
Number of Protons/Electrons in Phosphorus : 15
Number of Neutrons in Phosphorus : 16
Crystal Structure: Monoclinic
Density @ 293 K: 1.82 g/cm3
Color of Phosphorus : white, yellow, red, violet and black
The element Phosphorus and the Periodic Table
Find out more facts about Phosphorus on the Periodic Table which
arranges every chemical element according to its atomic number, as
based on the periodic law, so that chemical elements with similar
properties are in the same column. Our Periodic Table is simple to
use - just click on the symbol for Phosphorus for additional facts and
info and for an instant comparison of the Atomic Weight, Melting
Point, Boiling Point and Mass - G/cc of Phosphorus with any other
element. An invaluable source for more interesting facts and
information about the Phosphorus element and as a Chemistry reference
guide.
Facts and Info about
the element Argon - IUPAC and the Modern Standardised Periodic Table
The Standardised Periodic Table in use today was agreed by the
International Union of Pure Applied Chemistry, IUPAC, in 1985
which includes the Phosphorus element. The famous Russian Scientist,
Dimitri Mendeleev, perceived the correct classification method of
"the periodic table" for the 65 elements which were known in his
time. Phosphorus was discovered by Hennig Brand in 1669. The Standardised Periodic Table now recognises more periods
and elements than Dimitri Mendeleev knew in his day but still all
fitting into his concept of the "Periodic Table" in which
Phosphorus is
just one element that can be found.
