Facts about the Classification of the Element Phosphorus
Phosphorus is classified as an element in the 'Non-metals' section which can be located in groups 14,15 and 16 of the Periodic Table. Non-metals are not easily able to conduct electricity or heat and do not reflect light . Non-metallic elements are very brittle, and cannot be rolled into wires or pounded into sheets. Non-metallic elements exist, at room temperature, in two of the three states of matter : gases (such as oxygen) and solids (such as carbon).

Brief Facts about the Discovery and History of the Element Phosphorus
Phosphorus was discovered by Hennig Brand in 1669

Occurrence of the element Phosphorus
Occurs naturally in phosphates, especially apatite, and existing in three allotropic forms
Found in USA, Russia, Africa

Common Uses of Phosphorus
Safety matches
Pyrotechnics
Incendiary shells
Fertilizers
Steel production
Incendiary bombs
Pyrotechnics
Pesticides

The Properties of the Element Phosphorus
Name of Element : Phosphorus
Symbol of Element : P
Atomic Number of Phosphorus : 15
Atomic Mass: 30.97376 amu
Melting Point: 44.1 °C - 317.25 °K
Boiling Point: 280.0 °C - 553.15 °K
Number of Protons/Electrons in Phosphorus : 15
Number of Neutrons in Phosphorus : 16
Crystal Structure: Monoclinic
Density @ 293 K: 1.82 g/cm3
Color of Phosphorus : white, yellow, red, violet and black