This 1981 introduction to the chemistry of a single element, phosphorus, covers many of the major themes of chemistry. Important in inorganic and organic chemistry and in biochemistry, phosphorus is also of considerable economic significance and plays a vital role in the biosphere. By presenting a detailed treatment of selected topics, this book provides a concise account of phosphorus chemistry suitable for anyone with an interest in the field. The book provides a survey of phosphorus compounds by structural and bond types, a review of physical methods in phosphorus chemistry, a review of basicity and co-ordination chemistry of phosphorus donors, a discussion of phosphorus in its group, and a chapter on reagents containing phosphorus in general chemistry. A critical bibliography introduces the reader to the advanced literature. S. I. Units are used throughout, but c.g.s units are also given when appropriate.
