Phosphorus is an essential, reactive nonmetal found in DNA, cell membranes, energy-transfer molecules, and mineral phosphates.
Atomic number
15
Category
Reactive nonmetal
Period
3
Group
15
State
Solid
Fun facts about Phosphorus
White and red phosphorus are allotropes with very different hazards.
Phosphate rock is a finite source for agricultural fertilisers.
Bones and teeth contain calcium phosphate minerals.
Common uses of Phosphorus
Fertilisers
Safety matches
Phosphoric acid production
Where Phosphorus sits in the periodic table
Phosphorus is classified as a reactive nonmetal in period 3 and group 15 of the periodic table. Under the conditions represented in this reference, its state is solid.
Quick chemistry revision
For quick revision, pair the symbol P with atomic number 15 and the listed atomic mass 30.974. The summary, facts, and uses above keep those element properties together in one reference.