What is Phosphine?
[[File:Phosphine-3D-balls.png|thumb|Phosphine structure]] '''Phosphine''' is a [[chemical compound]]. Its chemical name is '''phosphorus hydride'''. Its [[chemical formula]] is PH<sub>3</sub>. It is also called '''phosphane''' and '''phosphamine'''. It contains [[phosphide]] and [[hydrogen]] [[ion]]s. ==Properties== It is a [[color]]less, [[flammable]] [[gas]]. It is highly [[toxic]]; it can easily kill, even when [[concentration]] levels are low. It smells like [[fish]]. It can ignite without a spark. When it burns, it makes a white cloud of [[phosphorus(V) oxide]], which is irritating. ==Preparation== It is made when [[hypophosphite]]s and [[phosphite]]s are heated. It is also made when [[white phosphorus]] reacts with warm [[alkali]]. ==Uses== The gas is used for [[pesticide|pest control]]. It is also used in making [[semiconductor]]s. ==Related pages== *[[Ammonia]] {{chem-stub}} [[Category:Phosphorus compounds]]