Phosphorus(V) oxide
chemical compound
(Redirected from Phosphorus pentoxide)
Phosphorus(V) oxide, also known as phosphorus pentoxide, is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is P4O10. It contains phosphorus and oxide ions. It contains phosphorus in its +5 oxidation state.
Properties change
Phosphorus(V) oxide is a colourless solid. It has a strong odor. It dissolves in water to produce phosphoric acid. It can corrode metals. It is irritating to the skin. It can make bad burns.
Preparation change
It is made by burning phosphorus into high amounts of air.
Uses change
It is used to dry things out because it absorbs water. It dries things out from acids like nitric acid to organic compounds like carboxylic acids.
Safety change
Phosphorus(V) oxide is corrosive. Its vapors are toxic and burn the eyes and skin. It also irritates skin and eyes.
