Which symbol represents Phosphorus?

Which symbol represents Phosphorus?

• A. S
• B. P
• C. Ar
• D. Cl

Answer: (B)

Symbols on the periodic table are shorthand for elements, usually one or two letters taken from the element’s name. Phosphorus is represented by the symbol P, which comes from its English name. The other symbols are for different elements—S is sulfur, Ar is argon, and Cl is chlorine. So P uniquely identifies phosphorus in chemical notation.

Symbols on the periodic table are shorthand for elements, usually one or two letters taken from the element’s name. Phosphorus is represented by the symbol P, which comes from its English name. The other symbols are for different elements—S is sulfur, Ar is argon, and Cl is chlorine. So P uniquely identifies phosphorus in chemical notation.