Phosphorus(V) chloride facts for kids
Phosphorus(V) chloride, also known as phosphorus pentachloride, is a special chemical compound. Its chemical formula is PCl5. This means it is made of one phosphorus atom and five chlorine atoms. It is an important chemical that scientists use in many ways.
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What is Phosphorus(V) Chloride Like?
Phosphorus(V) chloride is usually a colorless solid. Sometimes it can look a bit yellowish. It is one of the main types of chemicals that contain phosphorus and chlorine. When it touches hot water, it reacts strongly. This reaction creates two other chemicals: phosphoric acid and hydrochloric acid.
How is it Made?
Scientists make phosphorus(V) chloride by mixing a lot of chlorine gas with phosphorus. It can also be made by reacting chlorine with another chemical called phosphorus(III) chloride. This process helps create the specific compound needed for different uses.
What is it Used For?
Phosphorus(V) chloride is mainly used in chemistry to add chlorine to other chemical compounds. Think of it like a tool that helps change one chemical into another by adding chlorine atoms. This is useful for making many different substances.
Staying Safe with Phosphorus(V) Chloride
It is very important to know that phosphorus(V) chloride is an acidic and toxic chemical. This means it can be harmful if not handled carefully. When it reacts with water, it releases gases that are not safe to breathe. Because of this, only trained adults should ever work with this compound, always in a safe lab environment.
Images for kids
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This picture shows how phosphorus pentachloride looks at a tiny level.
