Question

When a small amount of solid calcium phosphide ($C{a}_3{P}_2$) is added to water, what are the most likely products formed?

• A. Aqueous $C{a}^{2+}$ and $O{H}^{-}$ ions and $P{H}_3$ gas
• B. Aqueous $C{a}^{2+}$ and $O{H}^{-}$ ions and $H_{3}P{O}_3$
• C. Solid $Ca{H}_2$ and $H_{3}P{O}_3$
• D. Solid $CaO$ and $P{H}_3$ gas

Answer 1

The correct option is A Aqueous $C{a}^{2+}$ and $O{H}^{-}$ ions and $P{H}_3$ gas

Calcium phosphide reacts vigorously with water to generate phosphine gas.
$C{a}_3{P}_{2\left(s\right)}+6H_2{O}_{\left(l\right)}⟶3Ca(OH{)}_{2(aq.)}+2P{H}_{3\left(g\right)}$