Question

Following table compares properties of red phosphorus and white phosphorus. Which is incorrect comparison?

• A. Red- Nontoxic and has polymeric structure; White - Toxic, waxy discrete tetrahedral $P_4$ molecule
• B. Red - Discrete tetrahedral $P_4$ molecule; White - Polymeric structure
• C. Red - High m.p., less reactive; White - Low m.p., more reactive
• D. Red - Shows no phosphorescence in air; White - Shows phosphorescence in air

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Red - Discrete tetrahedral $P_4$ molecule; White - Polymeric structure

Property	White phosphorus	Red phosphorus
Physical state	Soft waxy solid	Bittle powder
Colour	White when pure Attains yellow colour on standing	Red
Odour	Garlic	Odorless
Solubility in $C{S}_2$	Soluble	Insoluble
Physiological action	Poisonous	Non-poisonous
Chemical activity	Very active	Less active
Stability	Unstable	Stable