Pronunciation: [fˈɒsfəɹəs] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "phosphorous" can be confusing due to its similarity to "phosphorus," which refers to the chemical element. However, "phosphorous" is an adjective that describes something containing or relating to phosphorus. It is spelled with an "o" after "phosphor" to indicate the presence of the suffix "ous." The word is pronounced /ˈfɒsf(ə)rəs/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable.
Phosphorous is a chemical element that belongs to the group of nonmetallic elements. It is denoted by the chemical symbol "P" and has an atomic number of 15. Phosphorous is typically characterized as a soft, waxy, and highly reactive substance. It is known to have several allotropes, with the most common forms being white phosphorous, red phosphorous, and black phosphorous.
White phosphorous is a yellowish, translucent solid that glows in the dark due to its high reactivity with oxygen. It is highly toxic and flammable, emitting a distinctive smell of garlic. Red phosphorous, on the other hand, is a dark red powder that is much less reactive and stable. It is mostly employed in flares, matches, and fertilizers. Lastly, black phosphorous is a black, lustrous material with conductive properties, often used in electronic devices.
Phosphorous plays a vital role in various biological processes. It is an essential nutrient for plants and animals, crucial for the growth and development of tissues, bones, and teeth. In the environment, phosphorous primarily exists in the form of phosphates, which are essential components of DNA, RNA, and ATP (adenosine triphosphate). It also contributes to the growth of algae in bodies of water, serving as a key element in fertilizers.
Overall, phosphorous is a versatile element with numerous applications in various fields, including agriculture, industry, and biology. Its chemical and physical properties make it an important element for understanding the natural world and for technological advancements.
Pert. to or obtained from phosphorus.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "phosphorus" comes from the ancient Greek word "phōsphoros", which means "light-bringing" or "light-bearing". This term was derived from the Greek words "phōs" (light) and "pherein" (to bear or carry). The name was given to the element phosphorus due to its ability to emit a faint glow in the dark.
