Phosphorus(III) oxide facts for kids

Phosphorus(III) oxide, also called phosphorus trioxide, is a special chemical compound. It's made up of two common elements: phosphorus and oxygen. You might see its chemical formula written as P₂O₃ or P₄O₆. These formulas tell us how many phosphorus and oxygen atoms are joined together.

What it's Like

Phosphorus(III) oxide is a white, waxy solid. It can easily soak up water from the air. When it mixes with water, it creates a new substance called phosphorous acid. It also reacts with hydrochloric acid to form other compounds. This chemical is considered toxic, which means it can be harmful. It also has a smell that reminds some people of garlic.

How it's Made

Scientists make phosphorus(III) oxide by burning phosphorus in an area with only a small amount of air. This careful process helps create this specific compound, which is then used to make many other phosphorus-based chemicals.

What it's Used For

Phosphorus(III) oxide can connect itself to certain transition metals. This ability makes it useful in some areas of chemistry, especially when studying how different elements interact.

Related pages

• Phosphorus(V) oxide
• Phosphate
• Phosphite

Images for kids

• 

  The structure of phosphorus trioxide.

• 

  none

• 

  A model showing the structure of P4O6·Fe(CO)4.

See also

In Spanish: Óxido de fósforo(III) para niños