
 Home Common Compounds Exam Guide FAQ Features Glossary Construction Kits Companion Notes Just Ask Antoine! Simulations Slide Index Toolbox Tutorial Index
FAQ
Introduction Measurement Matter Atoms & ions Compounds Chemical change The mole Gases Energy & change The quantum theory Electrons in atoms The periodic table Chemical bonds Solids Liquids Solutions Acids & bases Redox reactions Reaction rates Organic chemistry Everyday chemistry
Environmental chemistry Laboratory History of chemistry Miscellaneous
|  |
What are the products of the reaction between phosphorus pentoxide and water?
-
-
Diphosphorus pentoxide, P2O5, is sometimes called "phosphoric anhydride" because it reacts with water to form
phosphoric acid, H3PO4:
P2O5(s) + 3 H2O( ) 2 H3PO4
The reaction releases a tremendous amount of heat and is quite violent. The solution often vaporizes and splashes out
of the container, accompanied by choking white fumes. The P2O5 is corrosive and very toxic, and the concentrated droplets of phosphoric acid solution it sprays can cause permanent eye damage and severe burns. Don't try this at home. Please.
P2O5 is prepared by burning phosphorus in extremely dry air.
Diphosphorus pentoxide dehydrates moist air and any material it comes into contact with.
It is often used as a dehydrating agent used in the synthesis of organic materials.
Author: Fred Senese senese@antoine.frostburg.edu |