fosforil

Phosphorus, often referred to as "fosfor" in some contexts, is a chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15. It is a nonmetal belonging to the nitrogen group. Phosphorus is highly reactive and is never found in its elemental form in nature, instead existing in various phosphate compounds. Its discovery is attributed to the alchemist Hennig Brand in 1669.

Phosphorus plays a crucial role in all known living organisms. It is a fundamental component of DNA and RNA, the molecules that carry genetic information, and is also a key element in adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells. The phosphate backbone of DNA and RNA is essential for their structural integrity, while ATP's high-energy phosphate bonds are broken and reformed to release energy for cellular processes. In bones and teeth, phosphorus is present as calcium phosphate, providing strength and structure.

Industrially, phosphorus is primarily used in the production of fertilizers, as plants require phosphorus for healthy growth. It is also utilized in the manufacturing of matches, fireworks, pesticides, and certain detergents. There are several allotropes of phosphorus, with white phosphorus, red phosphorus, and black phosphorus being the most common. White phosphorus is highly toxic and pyrophoric (ignites spontaneously in air), while red phosphorus is more stable and less reactive, making it suitable for use in match heads. Black phosphorus has a layered structure similar to graphite and exhibits semiconductor properties.