Phosphorus: Difference between revisions
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'''Phosphorus''' is the chemical element that has the symbol P and atomic number 15. The name comes from the Greek: ''phôs'' (meaning "light") and ''phoros'' (meaning "bearer"). A multivalent nonmetal of the [[Nitrogen]] group, phosphorus is commonly found in inorganic phosphate rocks. | '''Phosphorus''' is the chemical element that has the symbol P and atomic number 15. The name comes from the Greek: ''phôs'' (meaning "light") and ''phoros'' (meaning "bearer"). A multivalent nonmetal of the [[Nitrogen]] group, phosphorus is commonly found in inorganic phosphate rocks. | ||
Revision as of 00:46, April 13, 2012
Phosphorus is the chemical element that has the symbol P and atomic number 15. The name comes from the Greek: phôs (meaning "light") and phoros (meaning "bearer"). A multivalent nonmetal of the Nitrogen group, phosphorus is commonly found in inorganic phosphate rocks.
Due to its high reactivity, Phosphorus is never found as a free element in nature on Earth. One form of Phosphorus (white phosphorus) emits a faint glow upon exposure to Oxygen (hence its Greek derivation and the Latin 'light-bearer', meaning the planet Venus as Hesperus or "Morning Star").
Phosphorus is a component of DNA and RNA and an essential element for all living cells. One form it is found in is in ATP, Adenosine Triphosphate, an energy bearing molecule produced by mitochondria. The most important commercial use of Phosphorus-based chemicals is the production of fertilizers.
Phosphorus clouds are present in the atmosphere of Threshold, along with Ammonium Hydrosulfide, white Ammonia, ice crystals, and other gases.[1]
Sources
- ^ Halo: First Strike, page 79
