Preparation of Phosphorus Trichloride
Phosphorus trichloride, PCl3, (i.e. Phosphorus(III)Chloride) is prepared by the action
of chlorine on white or red phosphorus on heating in a retort, and condensing the
phosphorus trichloride vapour in a cooled dry receiver.
2 P + 3 Cl2 ==> 2 PCl3
Properties of Phosphorus Trichloride
Phosphorus trichloride is a colourless fuming liquid and has
- Melting Point : -112 degC
- Boiling Point : 75.5
- Relative Density : 1.57
Phosphorus trichloride is soluble in diethyl ether and in
carbon tetrachloride.
Reactions of Phosphorus Trichloride
Phosphorus trichloride reacts violently with water to
give phosphorous acid.
PCl3 + 3 H2O ==> H3PO3 + 3 HCl
Phosphorus trichloride reacts with ethanol.
Phosphorus trichloride has covalent bonding.
Uses
Phosphorus trichloride is used in organic chemistry as
a chlorinating agent.
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