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What are the three main allotropes of elemental phosphorus?

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Diagram showing the element phosphorus on the periodic table, with its atomic number 15, symbol P, atomic weight 30.973762, electron configuration, cubic crystal structure, solid state at room temperature, and weakly acidic oxides.
phosphorus

The three major allotropes of elemental phosphorus are white, red, and black phosphorus.1

  • White phosphorus: This form consists of tetrahedral P4 molecules. Due to the strain in its bond angles, it is relatively unstable, highly reactive, and toxic.1
  • Red phosphorus: A polymeric form that is generally amorphous or crystalline. It is significantly more inert and less volatile than the white modification.1
  • Black phosphorus: A flaky, crystalline form that resembles graphite. It is considered the most stable allotrope and is capable of conducting electricity.1