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Definition of the Phosphorus Element
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.
Origin / Meaning of the name Phosphorus
The name originates from
the Greek words phos meaning light and phoros meaning bearer.
Classification of the Phosphorus Element
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).
The
Discovery of Phosphorus
Phosphorus was discovered by
Hennig Brand
in 1669
Facts about the History of the Phosphorus
Element
Properties within each individual group are similar, but
nevertheless vary within a group. Generally chemical activity
decreases as the period increases a non-metal group and increases
as the period increases within a metal group. The first element in
a group is always an active metal, the last is always an inactive
non-metal.
Occurrence the Phosphorus Element
Occurs naturally in
phosphates, especially apatite, and existing in three allotropic
forms
Found in USA, Russia, Africa
Associated Uses of Phosphorus
Safety matches
Pyrotechnics
Incendiary shells
Fertilizers
Steel production
Incendiary bombs
Pyrotechnics
Pesticides
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