World wide demand for fertilisers has greatly increased in recent years as their importance to agriculture and arming has grown. Phosphorus is also important in the production of steel. Phosphates are ingredients of some detergents, but are increasingly being omitted nowadays due to concern that high phosphate levels in natural water supplies cause the growth of undesirable algae. Phosphates are also used in the production of special glasses and fine chinaware. Biological Role Phosphorus is the basis of life as part of the DNA molecule.
White phosphorus is very toxic and contact with skin can cause severe burns.
General Information White phosphorus is insoluble in water but soluble in carbon disulphide. It burns spontaneously in air. When exposed to sunlight or heated in its own vapour to 250K it is converted to red phosphorus, which is less dangerous than the white form and does not ignite spontaneously. Red phosphorus is used in the manufacture of safety matches, pesticides, incendiary shells, smoke bombs and tracer pellets.