It is a nearly colorless substance, having a waxy appear-
ance. Exposed to the air it smokes, and in the dark emits
light, from which it gets its name, derived from two Gi*eek
words signifying together to bear light. It is, you remem-
ber, inflammable at ordinary temperatures, and therefore in
order to preserve it we must keep it m water. From the
readiness with which it takes fire, and the violence with
which it bums, it is necessary to be careful in handling it.
It should be cut under water, and when taken from the
water it should be held by a forceps or on the point of a
knife, as even the warmth of the hand may set it on fire.
We should use small quantities in experimenting, and have
a vessel of water at liand to quench it in case it should
take fire accidentally when we do not wish it. Phosphorus
is a violent poison, and is therefore used in getting rid of
rats and mice. The common rat electuary is made of a
dram of phosphorus and eight ounces each of hot water and
flour. Phosphorus is insoluble in water, but is soluble in
ether, alcohol, and oils.
250. Eaq;>erimenta. — Observing the cautions given, you
can try many interesting experiments with phosphorus,
some of which we will notice.
Digitized



byGoogk



FHOSPHOBUS. 185

Put into a phial half an ounce (a tablespoonful) of ether,
and then a piece of phosphorus twice the size of a pea.
