Red phosphorus

Red phosphorus

A sample of red phosphorus
Names
Other names
Amorphous phosphorus
Identifiers
EC Number
  • 231-768-7
Properties
P
Molar mass 30.974 g·mol−1
Density 2.34 g/cm3
Melting point 590 °C (1,094 °F; 863 K)
Hazards
NFPA 704 (fire diamond)
NFPA 704 four-colored diamondHealth 1: Exposure would cause irritation but only minor residual injury. E.g. turpentineFlammability 1: Must be pre-heated before ignition can occur. Flash point over 93 °C (200 °F). E.g. canola oilInstability 1: Normally stable, but can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures. E.g. calciumSpecial hazards (white): no code
1
1
1
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).

Red phosphorus is an allotrope of phosphorus. It is an amorphous polymeric red solid that is stable in air. It can be easily converted from white phosphorus under light or heating. It finds applications as matches and fire retardants. It was discovered in 1847 by Anton von Schrötter.[1]

  1. ^ Kohn, Moritz (November 1944). "The discovery of red phosphorus (1847) by Anton von Schrötter (1802-1875)". Journal of Chemical Education. 21 (11): 522. Bibcode:1944JChEd..21..522K. doi:10.1021/ed021p522. ISSN 0021-9584.