Phosphorus has 5 valence electrons.
In the electron configuration of phosphorus, the valence electrons are located in the third energy level or outermost shell, specifically in the 3p subshell. The electron configuration of phosphorus is 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p3, indicating that there are 5 valence electrons in the 3p subshell.
More about Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15. It is a non-metallic element and belongs to group 15 of the periodic table. Phosphorus is a highly reactive element and it is never found in its pure form in nature. Instead, it is usually found as phosphate minerals in rocks and soils.
Phosphorus has a wide range of applications in various industries. One of its most important applications is as a component of fertilizers, since it is an essential nutrient for plant growth. Phosphorus is also used in the manufacture of many products, such as detergents, insecticides, flame retardants, and semiconductors.
In its elemental form, phosphorus can exist in several allotropes, or different structural forms. The most common allotrope is white phosphorus, which is a waxy, yellowish-white substance that glows in the dark. However, white phosphorus is highly reactive and can spontaneously ignite in air, making it dangerous to handle.
Red phosphorus is a more stable allotrope that is used in safety matches, pyrotechnics, and semiconductors. Black phosphorus is another allotrope that has recently gained attention due to its unique electronic and optical properties, which make it a promising material for future electronic devices.