Phosphorus

Symbol: P

Atomic Number: 15

Atomic Weight: 30.9738

Phosphorus (atomic number 15, symbol P) is a non-metal with a monoclinic structure and 3 main allotropes - black, red, and white. It has 3 oxidation states - 5, 4, 3 and is a multivalent non-mental. The element occurs in the form of phosphates, as organophosphates, and in minerals.

Because it is highly reactive, white phosphorus should be stored under water, meaning that the element does not occur freely in nature. It is reactive, soft, poisonous, and explosive. Black phosphorus has few commercial applications and is used to make anodes for lithium-ion batteries. It does not ignite easily and is...Read More