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Year 8 Science: Critical Elements: Phosphorus

Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorus (P)

Phosphorus is the 15th element in the periodic table and has a symbol of P and atomic number of 15. It has an atomic weight of 30.97376 and a mass number of 31. Phosphorus has fifteen protons and sixteen neutrons in its nucleus, and fifteen electrons in three shells. It is located in group fifteen, period three and block p of the periodic table. Non-metallic element belonging to group 15 of the periodic table. Has a multiple allotropic forms. Essential element for living organisms. It was discovered by Brandt in 1669.

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Where does Phosphorous come from?

Phosphorus has a concentration in the Earth's crust of about one gram per kilogram (compare copper at about 0.06 grams). It is not found free in nature, but is widely distributed in many minerals, usually as phosphates.

85% of Earth's known reserves are in Morocco with smaller deposits in ChinaRussia, FloridaIdahoTennesseeUtah, and elsewhere.

Organic sources, namely urinebone ash and (in the latter 19th century) guano, were historically of importance but had only limited commercial success. As urine contains phosphorus, it has fertilising qualities which are still harnessed today in some countries, including Sweden, using methods for reuse of excreta. To this end, urine can be used as a fertiliser in its pure form or part of being mixed with water in the form of sewage or sewage sludge.

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Phosphorous cycle

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Phosphorous as an endangered element

Uses of Phosphorous

Phosphorous and sustainability

Alternatives to Phosphate fertilisers: Biochar