Ethyl dithiophosphate, , complex with

Uses of the Sulphides of Phosphorus.—The pentasulphide of phosphorus is used to replace the oxygen of organic compounds by sulphur thus ethyl alcohol gives ethyl mercaptan, and acetic acid thioacetic acid.4 The reactions, however, are somewhat complex thus with ethyl alcohol the first product has been shown to be diethyl-dithiophosphate, SP(SH)(OEt)s, the mercaptan being produced by a secondary reaction.5 Phosphorus pentasulphide, boiling under atmospheric or other definite pressure, has been recommended for use in constant temperature baths in place of sulphur. The compound P4S3, which is one of the most stable sulphides in diy air, but resembles phosphorus in some respects, is used as a substitute for this element in the manufacture of matches.6... 

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