Text: A nonmetallic element, symbol P, atomic number 15, atomic weight 30.98; used to manufacture phosphoric acid, in phosphor bronzes, incendiaries, pyrotechnics, matches, and rat poisons; the white (or yellow) allotrope is a soft waxy solid melting at 44.5 degrees C, is soluble in carbon disulfide, insoluble in water and alcohol, and is poisonous and self-igniting in air; the red allotrope is an amorphous powder subliming at 416 degrees C, igniting at 260 degrees C, is insoluble in all solvents, and is nonpoisonous; the black allotrope comprises lustrous crystals similar to graphite, and is insoluble in most solvents.

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