Phosphorus is a fairly reactive non-metallic chemical element that belongs to group 15 (Va) of the periodic table and specifically to the nitrogen family. It is symbolized by the letter (P), has an atomic number of 15 and a weight of 30,974.
| Symbol | P |
| Atomic number | 15 |
| Atomic mass | 30.974 |
| Discovered by | Phosphorus was discovered by Hennig Brandt |
| Electronic configuration | [Ne] 3s23p3 |
One of the most important characteristics of phosphorus is that this element is practically impossible to find in a free or native state because it is a very reactive element and it will only appear forming other chemical and mineral compounds such as apatite wave turquoise. You can see all the minerals that have phosphorus in the following link.
Phosphorus is a chemical element with an atomic number of 15, which means that the atomic structure includes 15 protons and 15 electrons. For phosphorus, the chemical symbol is P.
The importance of phosphorus lies in the fact that it is one of the essential chemical elements for the human body and because it is also used to create fertilizers, pesticides and even detergents, you can learn more about the uses of phosphorus in the following link.
Phosphorus properties and characteristics
| isotopes | Phosphorus has 22 known isotopes. P-31 is the only stable isotope. |
| Density (g/cc) | 1.82 (white phosphorus) |
| Melting point(K) | 317.3 |
| Boiling point (K) | 553 |
| Appearance | white phosphorus is a phosphorescent waxy solid |
| Atomic radius(pm) | 128 |
| Atomic Volume(cc/mol) | 17.0 |
| Covalent radius(pm) | 106 |
| ionic radius | 35 (+5e) 212 (-3e) |
| Specific Heat(@20°CJ/gmol) | 0.757 |
| Heat of fusion(kJ/mol) | 2.51 |
| Heat of Evaporation (kJ/mol) | 49.8 |
| Pauling negativity number | 2.19 |
| First ionizing energy (kJ/mol) | 1011.2 |
| oxidation states | 5, 3, -3 |
| lattice structure | cubic |
| Lattice constant (Å) | 7,170 |
| CAS registry number | 7723-14-0 |
1. Physical properties
Phosphorus is an allotropic non-metallic element, that is, it does not have an established form, at least four forms are known, which are yellow, black, red and white, the last two being the most common.
This element is in a solid state and emits an unpleasant odor. However, in its pure state it is transparent and odorless.
It reaches its melting point at 44.15° C and while its boiling point starts at 280.5° C. Its density is 1823 kg/m3.
2. Chemical properties
| Cluster | fifteen |
| Period | 3 |
| Atomic number | fifteen |
| State at 20 ° C | Solid |
| Electronic configuration | [Ne] 3 s23p3 |
| Melting point | 44.15°C, 111.47°F, 317.3K |
| Boiling point | 280.5°C, 536.9°F, 553.7K |
| Density (g cm − 3) | 1,823 (white) |
| relative atomic mass | 30,974 |
| key isotopes | 31P |
| CAS number | 7723-14-0 |
It is insoluble in water and upon contact with air it combusts instantly.
Due to this type of reaction, it is a dangerous element, so its handling must be carried out carefully, under safety protocols that include tweezers and handling under water, since additionally The slightest contact with the skin can cause serious burns.
It is multivalent and has eight oxidation states.
3. Where is it found and how is it extracted?
Due to its high reactivity, this element is never found in its pure state in nature, but it is always part of numerous minerals and phosphate or phosphorite rocks. The most important deposits of phosphorus are found in Morocco, Russia and the United States.
The white allotropic form is obtained through different procedures; but the most widely used is the heating of tricalcium phosphate, which is subjected to a high temperature in an oven with the presence of silica and carbon, where the phosphorus is reduced and released in the form of steam.
4. In what part of the planet does it abound?
Its main reservoir is the earth’s crust stored in phosphated rocks and by the action of erosion they are released into the soil and water. The most common minerals that have phosphorus are apatite, turquoise stone, monazite and the phosphorites.
It is the twelfth most abundant element in the earth’s crust, representing 0.1% of its weight.
exist more than 550 minerals with ample phosphorus content.
Additionally, it is the sixth element with the greatest presence in the human body, staying mainly in the bones and teeth.
Phosphorus is also an essential element for plants, being one of the three main nutrients.
5. Functions in the human body
Phosphorus is 1% of total body weight. It is the second mineral with the highest presence in the body and is found in every cell.
Phosphorus is a essential component in DNA and RNA.
Its function is mainly based on participating in the formation of bones and teeth, as well as being required for the production of protein for the growth and repair of tissues and cells.
Likewise, phosphorus binds with B complex vitamins to support optimal kidney function, nerve signals, palpitations, and muscle contraction.
On the other hand, it is important to note that too much phosphorus can cause health problems, especially in the kidneys.
6. Benefits in technology
It is widely used in the metallurgical sector, for produce important alloys such as steel and bronze. While, in the industrial sector, trisodium phosphate is widely used in cleaning areas for its properties, as well as for preventing corrosion.
7. Benefits for society
Life itself requires this element for its operation, practically without phosphorus nothing would be possible.
Phosphorus is present in every cell, its action is determinant for the organism and is also essential for plants.
8. It can be dangerous
Phosphorus, although it is present in all living beings, is also an extremely toxic element, with just a dose of 50 mg of pure phosphorus is enough to cause poisoning.
While red phosphorus does not spontaneously combust when in contact with air and is not toxic, it can transform into white phosphorus and emit toxic fumes.
9. In the agricultural industry
Phosphorus has a special participation in the agricultural sector, since the use of this element is very important for the fertilizer production.
Likewise, phosphoric acid is used to make energy drinks, especially those used to rebuild body fluids during sports effort.
10. Important uses
Phosphorus is also used in the manufacture of toothpastes, pesticides, food additives, and fertilizers. Also the matchheads and flares use phosphor.