15 P 30.974

Phosphorus

Reactive Nonmetal

Phosphorus (P) is a chemical element with atomic number 15, classified as a reactive nonmetal. At room temperature it is a solid. It was discovered in 1669 by Hennig Brand.

Properties

Atomic number
15
Atomic mass
30.974 u
Category
Reactive Nonmetal
Group
15
Period
3
Block
p-block
Electron configuration
[Ne] 3s² 3p³
Phase at STP
Solid
Density
1.82 g/cm³
Melting point
317.3 K (44.2 °C)
Boiling point
553.65 K (280.5 °C)
Electronegativity
2.19
Atomic radius
98 pm
Ionization energy
10.487 eV
Discovery
1669 · Hennig Brand

Common uses

Fertilizers, matches, fireworks, DNA/RNA, bones and teeth

Did you know?

Glows in the dark when exposed to oxygen and is essential for all life.