Meaning & Definition of Phosphorus in English
Phosphorus
A chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15, essential for life.
Pronunciation:
/ˈfɒsfərəs/Part of Speech:
nounPlural:
phosphorusesDetailed Definitions
Definition: A nonmetallic chemical element that is essential for life and is a component of DNA, RNA, and ATP.
Example Sentence: Phosphorus is a key element in the structure of nucleic acids.
Definition: An element that exists in several allotropes, including white phosphorus, red phosphorus, and black phosphorus.
Example Sentence: White phosphorus is highly reactive and must be handled with care.
Definition: Used in fertilizers, detergents, and as a semiconductor in electronics.
Example Sentence: Phosphorus compounds are commonly used in agricultural fertilizers.
Definition: A component of phosphates, which are important in biochemistry and ecology.
Example Sentence: The process of eutrophication is often caused by excessive phosphorus runoff into water bodies.
Etymology
Origin: From Greek 'phosphoros', meaning 'light-bringer' or 'morning star'.
Synonyms
Common Phrases and Expressions
- phosphorus cycle: The biogeochemical cycle that describes the processes of phosphorus passing through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.
- phosphorus pentoxide: A chemical compound that is the oxide of phosphorus, often used as a dehydrating agent.
- phosphorylation: The process of adding a phosphate group to a molecule, usually a protein.
Translations
- Spanish: fósforo
- French: phosphore
- German: Phosphor
- Russian: фосфор
Related Words
- phosphate: A group of chemicals containing phosphorus, vital for many biological functions.
- phosphorize: To treat or combine with phosphorus.
- phosphorescence: The property of a material to emit light for a long time after being energized.
Slang Meanings of phosphorus
Meaning: Phosphor
Example Sentence: Some chemists refer to phosphorus simply as 'phosphor' in casual conversation.