Reaction of White and Red Phosphorus with Oxygen

Procedure Fill two gas jars with oxygen by replacement of air. Give a small white phosphorus crystal in the combustion spoon, ignite with the burner and place in the jar. Repeat the reaction with red phosphorus. Fill some water in both cylinders, shake and examine the solution using indicator paper. 

Observation Both phosphorus types react with oxygen generating bright light and a dense white smoke, which in part covers the inside wall of the cylinder. The smoke can be absorbed in water, the resulting solution colors the indicator paper red. 

Disposal The remains of the phosphorus can be completely burnt under the fume hood with the aid of the burner flame or can be placed in concentrated copper sulfate solution. 

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