Red Phosphorus

The chemical element phosphorus is a non-metal that is represented by the chemical symbol P and has an atomic number 15. Phosphorus belongs to a multivalent nonmetal nitrogen group. It is commonly found in phosphate rocks and exits in two forms. These two major forms are: red and white phosphorus. In this article we shall learn some information related to the former type.

Information
It is relatively harmless and stable. It can be handled safely as it has less ring strain that is added with polymeric nature that gives it higher stability. Red phosphorus (P_n) is also known as red amorphous phosphorus.

It is an opaque compound that is amorphous or crystalline in nature. It is either orange red, dark red, violet/dark purple or reddish brown in color. It is available in granular, pill or powder form commercially.

White phosphorus is converted into red phosphorus, when it is exposed to sunlight or heated on its own vapor to about 250°C .It does not show phosphoresce in air. It does not ignite until heated to about 260°C . It is stable at room temperature, nonvolatile and odorless compound.

Many students often wonder about its solubility in water. It does not dissolve in water and carbon disulphide general solvent. It is found to be in an intermediate phase that is between white and violet phosphorus. Its melting point is about 317.3 K or 590°C.

Uses
Due to its stability, its uses are mainly commercial. It is the main component of matchbook strike plates for safety matches. It is also used in manufacturing of signaling flares, military pyrotechnic devices, etc.

It is also used in synthesis of drugs, as it can produce hydriodic acid (HI) when combined with elemental iodine. Hydriodic acid coverts ephedrine or pseudoephedrine into methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is stimulant that alters mood, increases energy, alertness and self-esteem. It also induces feelings of euphoria, thus making the user addicted to it.

It is also used to manufacture fertilizers for root development and promoting plant vitality and growth. Uses also include in increasing the production on seeds and flowers and make the plant disease and pest resistant.

It also includes in metallurgy industry for casting and refining various metals like lead smelting in copper processing. It is also used in making racer bullets, incendiary devices, pesticides, pyrotechnic devices and many other products. It is also used in organic synthesis reactions. It helps in the manufacture of phosphoric acid, phosphine, phosphoric anhydride, phosphorus pentachloride, and phosphorus trichloride. It is also commonly used in electroluminescent coatings and in flame retardants for polymers.

Red phosphorus is not toxic and does not ignite spontaneously when exposed to air. However, it is a highly flammable powder that is sensitive to friction, impact and electric sparks.