Phosphorus

15
P
30.97362(4)

matches.jpg (4415 bytes)
Phosphorus is used in Matches

Properties
Symbol Name Atomic Number Atomic Weight Group Number
P Phosphorus 15 30.97362(4) 15

Description

Standard State: solid at 298 K
Color: colorless/red/silvery white

Phosphorus is very poisonous; a 50 mg dose would be fatal.  White phosphorus is very dangerous in air and when it comes in contact with skin it can cause severe burns.   Phosphorus is mainly used in fertilizers.  It is also used in the making of sodium lamps.