Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a chemical element; it has 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). In minerals, phosphorus generally occurs as phosphate.

Function. The main function of phosphorus is in the formation of bones and teeth. It plays an important role in how the body uses carbohydrates and fats. It is also needed for the body to make protein for the growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and tissues.

Hydrogen

Identity.

Phosphorus is a chemical element with symbol P and atomic number 15. Classified as a nonmetal, Phosphorus is a solid at room temperature.

Atomic Structure:

Phosphorus has 15 protons and 16 neutrons in its nucleus giving it an atomic number of 15 and a atomic mass of 31. Phosphorus is in Period 3 of the Periodic Table because it has 3 electron shells.

History.

Phosphorus was first made by Hennig Brandt at Hamburg in 1669 when he evaporated urine and heated the residue until it was red hot, whereupon phosphorus vapour distilled which he collected by condensing it in water. Brandt kept his discovery secret, thinking he had discovered the Philosopher’s Stone that could turn base metals into gold. When he ran out of money, he sold phosphorus to Daniel Kraft who exhibited it around Europe including London where Robert Boyle was fascinated by it. He discovered how it was produced and investigated it systematically. (His assistant Ambrose Godfrey set up his own business making and selling phosphorus and became rich.)

When it was realised that bone was calcium phosphate, and could be used to make phosphorus, and it became more widely available. Demand from match manufacturers in the 1800s ensured a ready market.

Paracelsus

Usage.

The main function of phosphorus is in the formation of bones and teeth. Phosphorus can also be found in a variety of products such as baking powder, fertilisers, and fireworks. It also plays an important role in the production of steel. Phosphates are also used in the production of fine chinaware and special glasses.

  • Biological building block:Phosphorus is crucial for life on Earth. It's a key component of DNA, RNA, and ATP, molecules fundamental to energy transfer and genetic information in all living organisms.
  • Nutrient for plants and animals:Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development. It's also necessary for healthy bones, teeth, and cell membranes in animals, including humans.
  • Fertilizers: The largest industrial use of phosphorus is in fertilizers, which replenish phosphorus in soil to promote plant growth and crop yields.
Some of the benefits of using phosphorus are:
  • Phosphorus, along with calcium, is a major component of hydroxyapatite, the mineral that gives bones and teeth their strength and structure.
  • Phosphorus is a key component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule that cells use to store and transport energy.
  • Phosphorus is involved in maintaining the structure and function of cell membranes, which are essential for various cellular processes.

Sources.

A variety of foods naturally contain phosphorus, and the richest sources are dairy, red meat, poultry, seafood, legumes, and nuts. Phosphorus from these foods is called organic phosphorus. It is absorbed more efficiently from animal foods than plant foods.

Properties.

Physical Properties of Phosphorus Boiling point: 280.5°C. Melting point: 44.15°C. Density: 1.823 g/cm3. Appearance: white, red, or black solid.

White phosphorus is a chemical waxy solid substance typically appearing yellowish or colourless, and some have described its odour as resembling garlic. It ignites instantly upon contact with oxygen. It is often used by militaries to illuminate battlefields, to generate a smokescreen and as an incendiary.