Q. With reference to “White phosphorus” which of the following statements are correct?
1.It is a highly combustible chemical that burns quickly and brightly when exposed to air.
2.It is classified as a chemical weapon because of its high toxicity.
3.It is not found naturally but is produced from phosphate rocks..
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation –
Statements 1 is correct. White phosphorus is a waxy, yellowish-to-clear chemical with a pungent, garlic-like odour. It is a highly combustible chemical that burns quickly and brightly when exposed to air. It can be deployed through artillery shells, bombs, rockets or grenades. It is used primarily to create a smokescreen at night or during the day to hide the visual movement of troops.
Statement 3 is correct. White phosphorus is not found naturally, but is produced from a mineral called apatite, which is a phosphate mineral found in phosphate rocks. The process of producing white phosphorus involves heating apatite to extremely high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, and the phosphorus is then collected as a white, waxy substance.
Statement 2 is incorrect. White phosphorus is not considered a chemical weapon because it operates primarily by heat and flame rather than toxicity.
Source: ForumIAS
