Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15. Elemental phosphorus exists in two major forms, white phosphorus and red phosphorus, but because it is highly reactive, phosphorus is never found as a free element on Earth. It has a concentration in the Earth's crust of about one gram per kilogram (compare copper at about 0.06 grams). With few exceptions, minerals containing phosphorus are in the maximally oxidized state as inorganic phosphate rocks.

Characteristics

Phosphorus is a nonmetal that is not found free in nature but it is widely distributed in many different minerals. It is a crucial component of life. It is used in safety matches, pyrotechnics, incendiary shells, and fertilizers and to protect metal surfaces from corrosion.

History

Phosphorus was first isolated as white phosphorus in 1669. It was initially used in attempts to turn base metals to gold and later as a key component in matches and fertilizers.

Applications

Phosphorus is used in the manufacture of safety matches, pyrotechnics and incendiary shells. Phosphorus is also used in steel manufacture and in the production of phosphoric acid, a key ingredient in many fertilizers.

Biological role

Phosphorus is an essential element for life. As phosphate, it is a component of DNA, RNA, ATP, and also the phospholipids that form all cell membranes.

See also

• Phosphorus cycle
• Phosphoric acid
• Phosphorus pentoxide

References

Phosphorus Resources
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