Question

What is alpha black phosphorus?

Answer 1

$\mathrm{\alpha }$-black phosphorus

• Black phosphorus is an allotropic form of phosphorus.
• Black phosphorus is of two types: $\mathrm{\alpha }$-black phosphorus and $\mathrm{\beta }$-black phosphorus.

Properties

• Alpha black phosphorus is formed when red phosphorus is heated in a closed tube at a temperature of $803\mathrm{K}$.
• It does not get oxidized in the air.
• Alpha Black phosphorus is more stable than beta one. Alpha consists of opaque monoclinic or rhombohedral crystals, while beta has corrugated sheets that form flaky layered crystals.