phosphorous
/'fɔsfərəs/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Containing or characteristic of phosphorus: Describes something that contains the chemical element phosphorus (P) or has properties associated with it.
- Relating to or derived from phosphorus: Pertaining to compounds in which phosphorus is present, especially in a lower valence state compared to phosphoric compounds.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- The match head has a phosphorous coating that ignites when struck.
- Scientists studied the phosphorous compounds found in the soil sample.
- A phosphorous glow was visible in the dark cave.
Advanced Usage
- "Phosphorous acid": A specific chemical compound (H₃PO₃), distinct from phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). It is an example of a phosphorus compound in a +3 oxidation state.
- Phosphorous acid is often used as a reducing agent.
Variants and Related Words
- Phosphorus (n): The chemical element (symbol P) itself.
- Red phosphorus is a less reactive allotrope.
- Phosphoric (adj): Containing phosphorus in a higher oxidation state, especially +5, as in phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄).
- Phosphoric acid is commonly used in soft drinks.
- Phosphate (n): A salt or ester of phosphoric acid.
- Calcium phosphate is important for bone health.
Synonyms
- Phosphoric (when referring to the pentavalent state, but note the technical distinction in valence).
Notes on Meaning and Usage
- Technical Distinction: In precise chemical terminology, phosphorous (with an 'o' and ending in '-ous') typically refers to compounds where phosphorus has a valence of +3. In contrast, phosphoric (ending in '-ic') refers to the +5 valence state. This is analogous to the distinction between (H₂SO₃) and (H₂SO₄) acids.
- Common Confusion: The word phosphorous is often confused with the element name phosphorus. Remember: Phosphorus is the noun (the element), while phosphorous is the adjective (describing something containing that element, typically in the +3 state).
Adjective
- containing or characteristic of phosphorus
- phosphoric acid