Question

The reagent used to detect phosphorous in an organic compound is :

• A. $FeS{O}_4$
• B. $AgN{O}_3$
• C. $(N{H}_4{)}_{2}Mo{O}_4$
• D. $BaC{l}_2$

Answer 1

The correct option is C $(N{H}_4{)}_{2}Mo{O}_4$

The reagent used to detect phosphorous in an organic compound is $(N{H}_4{)}_{2}Mo{O}_4$. The compound is heated with sodium peroxide to oxidise phosphorous to phosphate. The solution is boiled with nitric acid and then treated with ammonium molybdate. A yellow colouration or precipitate confirms the presence of phosphorous.