Phosphorus Uses

Phosphorus is a chemical element commonly found in inorganic phosphate rocks. In the list of chemical elements, it is designated the symbol P, while its atomic number is 15. Basically, there exist two major forms of elemental phosphorus - white phosphorus and red phosphorus. Phosphorus uses, which exist in plenty, make it one of the most important chemical element found on the planet.

Phosphorus Uses and Properties

Elemental phosphorus is basically a non-metal, with a density of 1.82, and atomic weight of 30.973762. The melting point of phosphorus is 44.1°C, while its boiling point is 280°C. The uses of phosphorus can be broadly categorized into two groups, i.e. phosphorus uses in human body and plants. In case of uses for humans, there are biological uses as well as industrial uses. Some of the most important uses of phosphorus are given below.

Phosphorus Uses in the Body
Phosphorus is by far the main source of phosphate in the body. Human body requires phosphate to produce energy and manage it. It also plays a crucial role in synthesizing proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Phosphate is also required to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. With so many uses to its credit phosphate is indeed very important for the body, and lack of the same can result in adverse effects on us. Phosphorus is a vital component of DNA and RNA, and links the structures of both. Phosphorus also plays a crucial role in transmission of nerve impulses within the body. We do know that calcium is the most important element in the human body when it comes to formation of teeth and bones. What we don't know is the fact calcium alone can't build these bones, and hence our body requires phosphorus to do the same. Half of the bones in human body are made from phosphate derived phosphorus. Other than these uses, phosphorus also facilitates the digestion of riboflavin and niacin, and helps the kidneys to excrete wastes effectively.

Phosphorus Uses in Plants
Phosphorus is one of the three most essential nutrients which play a vital role in plant growth, the other two being nitrogen and potassium. It plays a crucial role in various life processes, such as the photosynthesis, nutrient transport and energy transfer, in plants. During the process of photosynthesis, it is required to convert light energy to chemical energy. Phosphorus needs to be mixed with water and added to the soil, from where it is absorbed by the plant after it combines with other nutrients in the soil. In this way, potassium facilitates nutrient transport from soil to the various parts of the plant. This nutrient also serves as energy storage medium within cells (ATP) in form of phosphate. Recent studies have also revealed that phosphorus is related to the growth of cellular structures, and thus the deficiency of this nutrient can hamper the growth of plant to a significant extent. The difference between the growth of two plants, one aided by potassium rich fertilizers, and the other deficient in this nutrient, is quite obvious from its appearance.

Other Uses Phosphorus
Owing to its various properties, phosphorus and its various compounds have been used in a wide range of applications. It is used as a flame-retardant for textiles, plastics, sealants, etc. Chemical polish made from phosphorus is ideal in brightening aluminum and aluminum alloys. It is used in a range of cleaning solutions as well. Red phosphorus is used to make matchbook strikers and safety matches. In terms of industrial usage, phosphorus is used to produce special glasses, phosphor bronze, steel, etc. It is also a major constituent of high-nitrogen fertilizer. Phosphorus is used in incendiary bombs and smoke bombs in the military.

These were some of the major phosphorus uses for humans and plants. Other than the biological uses mentioned above, we also use this element in several day-to-day activities. This includes use of phosphorus for the treatment of potable water, its use in toothpaste, etc. All these uses of phosphorus and its compounds, give a rough idea of how important this chemical element is for various life forms on the planet.