Phosphorus pentoxide is a potent dehydrating agent as indicated by the exothermic nature of its hydrolysis P4O10 + 6 H2O → 4 H3PO4 (–177 kJ). A granular form of P4O10 is used in desiccators. Consistent with its strong desiccating power, P4O10 is used in organic synthesis for dehydration.
Phosphorus pentoxide is a deliquescent compound prepared by reacting phosphorus with air. It is a commonly used as dehydrating and condensing agent in organic synthesis.
It reacts with water to form phosphoric acid H3PO4. It is highly exothermic and leads to formation of fumes. Diphosphorous Pentoxide is s very powerful dehydrating agent.
phosphorus is burned to form phosphorus pentoxide, P4O10. Sometimes called phosphoric anhydride, or diphosphorus pentoxide, this compound can be obtained in the form of a soft white powder or colourless crystalline solid.
