What Is Phosphorus?

We obtain phosphorus from our food

Phosphorus is the 11th most abundant element in the earth's crust and the second most abundant mineral in the human body. Foods containing high amounts of phosphorus include dairy products, eggs, fish, dried fruit, meat, garlic, nuts and whole grains. North Americans ingest about 1500 milligrams of phosphorus daily, which is almost twice the recommended allowance.

Phosphorus combines readily with oxygen to form oxides, phosphates and a mineral called apatite. The phosphorus required by living things is combined with oxygen and called a phosphate (PO₄^-3). Phosphates are found dissolved in water (inorganic phosphates) and within living tissue (organic phosphates).

High school chemistry students can click here to learn more about Types of Phosphates.