Sodium phosphide
Appearance
Sodium phosphide is a chemical compound. It contains sodium and phosphide ions. Its chemical formula is Na3P.
Properties
[change | change source]Sodium phosphide is a black solid. It is ionic. There are several other sodium phosphides that do not have the formula Na3P. It reacts with acids to make phosphine gas. It is a reducing agent.
Preparation
[change | change source]It can be made by reacting liquid sodium with phosphorus(V) chloride. It can also be made by reacting sodium with phosphorus.
Uses
[change | change source]It is used to make semiconductors. It can also be used as a catalyst.
Safety
[change | change source]Sodium phosphide is flammable, making toxic gases when burned. It also makes toxic flammable gases when reacted with acids.