Phosphorus trioxide

Phosphorus trioxide is the chemical compound with the molecular formula P4O6.

Although the molecular formula suggests the name tetraphosphorus hexoxide, the name phosphorus trioxide preceded the knowledge of the compound's molecular structure, and its usage continues today.

A white solid that melts at room temperature, it is waxy, crystalline and highly toxic, with garlic odor.

[1] It is obtained by the combustion of phosphorus in a limited supply of air at low temperatures.

In a disproportionation reaction, P4O6 is converted into the mixed P(III)P(V) species P4O8 when heated in a sealed tube at 710 K, with the side product being red phosphorus.

Ball-and-stick model of the P4O6 molecule
Ball-and-stick model of the P4O6 molecule
Packing of P4O6 molecules in the crystal structure
Packing of P4O6 molecules in the crystal structure
NFPA 704 four-colored diamond Health 3: Short exposure could cause serious temporary or residual injury. E.g. chlorine gas Flammability 0: Will not burn. E.g. water Instability 0: Normally stable, even under fire exposure conditions, and is not reactive with water. E.g. liquid nitrogen Special hazards (white): no code
Structure of P 4 O 6 ·Fe(CO) 4 .
Liquid and solid phosphorus trioxide at its melting point
Liquid and solid phosphorus trioxide at its melting point
Structure of P 8 O 12 (BH 3 ) 2 .