When white phosphorus () is warmed with a concentrated aqueous solution of Sodium hydroxide (), a disproportionation reaction occurs. What are the major products formed?

Question

When white phosphorus ($P_4$) is warmed with a concentrated aqueous solution of Sodium hydroxide ($NaOH$), a disproportionation reaction occurs. What are the major products formed?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: D. White phosphorus undergoes disproportionation in boiling alkaline solution to yield Phosphine gas (, where P is in a -3 state) and Sodium hypophosphite (, where P is in a +1 state).

💡 Solution & Explanation

Practice 22,000+ questions like this