NO. 015Reactive Nonmetal

P

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a reactive Reactive Nonmetal essential for life, forming part of DNA, RNA, and ATP molecules. It exists in several allotropes with different properties. Phosphorus is widely used in fertilizers, detergents, matches, and industrial chemical production.

Crystal Structure

Orthorhombic

Technical Specifications

Atomic Mass30.974 u

Density1.82 g/cm³

Melting Point317.3 K

Boiling Point553 K

Atomic Radius110 pm

Electronegativity2.19

Ionization Energy1012 kJ/mol

Electron Affinity72 kJ/mol

Bonding TypeCovalent

Oxidation States-3, 3, 5

Acid/BaseAcidic

ReactivityHigh

Electron Configuration

[Ne] 3s2 3p3

Discovered ByHennig Brand

Year1669

Known Isotopes

Phosphorus-31