PCl5 is the chemical formula for phosphorus pentachloride, a compound of phosphorus and chlorine. According to the provided reference, it is a greenish-yellow crystalline solid that has an irritating odor.
Properties of Phosphorus Pentachloride (PCl5)
Here's a breakdown of its key properties:
- Appearance: Greenish-yellow crystalline solid
- Odor: Irritating
- Reactivity: It reacts violently with water, decomposing into hydrochloric acid (HCl) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4), also releasing heat. This is described in the reference: "It is decomposed by water to form hydrochloric and phosphoric acid and heat."
Chemical Reaction with Water
The reaction of PCl5 with water is a significant characteristic. It highlights its instability in the presence of moisture. The reaction can be represented as follows:
PCl5(s) + 4 H2O(l) → H3PO4(aq) + 5 HCl(aq)
Uses of Phosphorus Pentachloride
While not explicitly mentioned in the reference, PCl5 has a few uses, including:
- As a chlorinating agent in organic chemistry.
- As a catalyst.
Safety Considerations
Due to its reactivity with water and the formation of corrosive acids, PCl5 should be handled with care and appropriate safety precautions.
