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Meaning & Definition of Phosphorus in English

English

Phosphorus

A chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15, essential for life.


Pronunciation:

/ˈfɒsfərəs/

Part of Speech:

noun

Plural:

phosphoruses

Detailed 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

Pphosphorwhite phosphorusred phosphorus

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.