Phosphorus trioxide

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Phosphorus trioxide is the chemical compound with the formula P₄O₆. This colorless solid is structurally related to adamantane.

P₄O₆ is the acid anhydride of the unstable tautomer of phosphorous acid, P(OH)₃.

P₄O₆ is a ligand for transition metals, comparable to phosphite.

Contents 1 Preparation 2 Physical Properties 3 Chemical Properties 4 Reference

[edit] Preparation

It is obtained by the combustion of phosphorus in a limited supply of air.

P₄ + 3 O₂ → 2 P₂O₃

[edit] Physical Properties

It is a white waxy substance and has a garlic odour.

[edit] Chemical Properties

1. It reacts with cold water to form phosphorous acid ( H₃PO₃ ).

  P2O3 + 3 H2O → 2 H3PO3 

2. It reacts with hot water vigorously to form flammable phosphine gas ( PH₃ ).

  2 P2O3 + 6 H2O → PH3↑ + 3 H3PO4

[edit] Reference

[1]