No, PCl3 (Phosphorus Trichloride) is not a gas under normal conditions; it exists as a colorless fuming liquid.
Understanding Phosphorus Trichloride (PCl3)
PCl3 is an inorganic chemical compound primarily known for its role as a reagent in organic synthesis. Its physical state at standard temperature and pressure is a liquid, not a gas. The "fuming" characteristic indicates that it readily vaporizes and reacts with moisture in the air, producing visible fumes.
Key Physical and Chemical Properties
Understanding the properties of PCl3 is crucial for its safe handling and application.
Physical State and Appearance:
- State at Room Temperature: Liquid
- Appearance: Colorless, fuming liquid. The fumes are due to its reaction with atmospheric moisture.
Chemical Reactivity:
PCl3 is highly reactive and its chemical properties are significant:
- Reaction with Water: It reacts violently with water. This reaction is exothermic and produces phosphoric acid and hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas.
- Oxidizing Nature: PCl3 is a strong oxidizer.
- Organic Reactions: It readily reacts with many organic compounds, particularly those containing hydroxyl (-OH) groups, where it can act as a chlorinating agent.
Summary of PCl3 Properties
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Phosphorus Trichloride, PCl3 |
| Physical State | Liquid |
| Color | Colorless |
| Appearance | Fuming (reacts with atmospheric moisture) |
| Reactivity | Highly reactive with water, strong oxidizer, reacts with organic compounds |
| Byproducts (Water Reaction) | Phosphoric acid, Hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas |
For more detailed chemical data on Phosphorus Trichloride, you can refer to reputable chemical databases such as PubChem.
Safety Considerations
Given its violent reaction with water, its fuming nature, and its corrosive byproducts (like HCl gas from hydrolysis), PCl3 requires strict safety protocols for storage and handling. It should always be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area and handled with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
