Element of the Week: Week 5 - Phosphorus

Element of the Week Week 5 - Phosphorus From Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., your Guide to Chemistry The name for the element phosophorus comes from the Greek word for 'light-bearing'. It's also an old name for the planet Venus. Element Facts Periodic Table Entry for Phosphorus  Would you know a hunk of phosphorus if you saw it? In its solid form, phosphorus is a waxy white material. However, it tends to burn spontaneously in air and the element, while essential to life, is highly poisonous in pure form.Tell me more... Make Glow-in-the-Dark Ink One of the properties of phosphorus is that it exhibits phosphorescence. Phosphorescent materials absorb light and then re-release it later at a longer (less energetic) wavelength. In other words, they glow in the dark for a while after exposure to light. Glow-in-the-dark ink makes use of the phosphorescence of phosphorus. Fireworks Periodic Table Entry Spontaneous combustion and phosphorescence are both useful properties for fireworks and pyrotechnic devices. Element Photo Gallery Do you want to know what all of the elements look like? Here's a photo gallery that showcases the pure elements. Most of the photographs are public domain so you can download them and use them yourself. More Resources Non-Metal Characteristics  Phosphorus is a non-metallic element - a nonmetal. Nonmetals display a wide range of properties, but they do have some things in common. Find out more... Why Are Phosphates Used for Cleaning? Phosphorus is very reactive, so it isn't found 'free' in nature. Instead, you'll find the element in compounds, such as phosphates. Got Questions? Visit the Chemistry Forum  You can ask and answer questions at the chemistry forum. Forum members include anyone interested in chemistry. You'll find scientists, engineers, teachers, students, parents, and other people just like you with an interest in chemistry and the elements. Chemistry Activities for Kids E-Course Are you ready for kid-friendly chemistry activities and games? Each e-course newsletter features safe projects, games or quizzes, and links for additional learning. Learn about the elements, grow crystals, and more! When you sign up you'll get one newsletter a week until you've gotten them all. Sign me up! This email is written by:  Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.