Phosphorus is a waxy, non-metal element that is represented by the atomic symbol, P. It has an atomic number of 15 and an atomic weight of 30.9738. It does not occur freely in nature, but is typically found in combination with minerals such as apatite.

Three main allotropic forms of phosphorus are found including white, red and black. White phosphorus has melting point of 111.47°F (44.15°C). White phosphorus exhibits the phenomenon of phosphorescence, which means it glows in the dark when exposed to air. This results from the slow combination of phosphorus vapor with oxygen in the air. White phosphorus is one of the most dangerous substances known. It is so reactive that it must be stored underwater, or it will ignite spontaneously; it can also cause serious burns on contact with flesh. When white phosphorus is heated in its own vapor up to 482°F (250°C...