Phosphorus

Received a 96 on this paper.

PHOSPHOROUS

(A Greek word meaning Light Bearer)

Many of the substances and gadgets discovered in the past were done so by accident. Phosphorus was no different. This substance came about in 1669 when a German physician named Hennig Brand boiled, filtered and processed many gallons of urine. As disgusting as this method was, he conducted the experiment in hopes to distill salt by evaporating urine! In the interim, he generated a white substance that glowed in the dark and burned brightly, hence Phosphorus. The urine-burning method is not necessary any longer. We can collect phosphorus from phosphate rock now.

Because of Henning Brand’s non-conventional methods then, beginning in the 19th century and today, we have fireworks, matches, pesticides, toothpaste, and detergents. Phosphorus went on to aid in the creation of fertilizer, and the latest, a herbicide that we all know as Roundup.

Phosphorus and calcium are two of the most plentiful minerals in the human body. Phosphorous works with calcium to produce healthy teeth and strong bones. However Phosphorous and Calcium are two very different entities. Without Phosphorus the body would not be able to convert protein, carbohydrates and fat into energy. Phosphorus also aids in the formation of cell membranes and genetic material and assists the kidneys in cleaning out toxins.

Obtaining and/or maintaining the proper amount of phosphorus depends on one’s

eating habits. Which kinds of foods give the proper amount of phosphorus? How can foods be prepared to allow