When Is Red Phosphorus Spontaneously Combustible?

Red phosphorus is a flammable solid but does not ignite spontaneously on exposure to air. At high temperatures (~300 °C), red phosphorus is converted to the white form. White phosphorus reacts with a number of substances to form explosive mixtures.

Does phosphorus Show spontaneous combustion?

White phosphorus is highly reactive, and spontaneously ignites at about 30°C in moist air. It is usually stored under water, to prevent exposure to the air. ... Red phosphorus is stable at room temperature, but can be converted to the more reactive white phosphorus by heat, sunlight, or friction.

Is red phosphorus combustible?

Red phosphorus is a highly combustible hazardous material, which is used in the striking surface for matches. However, when a small amount of red phosphorus is mixed with a flammable resin, the resin becomes less likely to burn.