fosfidi

Fosfidi are chemical compounds that contain a phosphide ion (P³⁻) or a phosphorus atom bonded to a less electronegative element. These compounds can be formed with metals, metalloids, and even some nonmetals. The phosphide ion is a strong base and a powerful reducing agent.

Inorganic phosphides are typically formed by the direct reaction of phosphorus with metals or their compounds at high temperatures. For example, calcium phosphide (Ca₃P₂) is formed by heating calcium with phosphorus. Many metal phosphides are crystalline solids with high melting points. Some phosphides are pyrophoric, meaning they ignite spontaneously in air, especially when finely divided. This is due to their reaction with oxygen, which can produce heat and flammable phosphine gas (PH₃).

Organophosphides, on the other hand, are compounds containing a phosphorus-carbon bond. These are important in organic chemistry and can be used as ligands in organometallic chemistry or as intermediates in synthesis. The properties of organophosphides vary widely depending on the organic groups attached to the phosphorus atom.

Phosphides have various applications. Metal phosphides like indium phosphide (InP) and gallium phosphide (GaP) are semiconductors used in optoelectronic devices such as LEDs and lasers. Calcium phosphide is used as a rodenticide, although its use is declining due to safety concerns related to the generation of phosphine gas. Some phosphides are also employed as catalysts or reducing agents in industrial processes. The study of phosphides is an ongoing area of research, with potential for new materials and applications.