Phosphorus pentoxide(P2O5)

Phosphorus Pentoxide is a white, flammable, dangerous, and extremely deliquescent solid; specific gravity 2.39; melting point 580 C (under pressure); sublimes at 300 C. The solid reacts with water violently to produce phosphoric acid. It is prepared by phosphorus reaction with excess oxygen. The crude is then purified by sublimation. Phosphorus pentoxide structure consists of each P atoms linked to three others by oxygen bridges with a terminal oxygen atom. It is used as a strong dehydrating agent, capable even of dehydrating concentrated sulphuric acid into sulphur trioxide. It dehydrates amides to nitriles. End applications include manufacture of phosphorus compounds, purifying sugar, optical glass, heat-insulating glass, medicine, pesticide and surfactant manufacturings.