Author: Glossary

Poisoning caused by the ingestion of substances containing yellow phosphorus, such as rat and roach poison. Before the introduction of safety matches (which contain no yellow phosphorus), phosphorus poisoning was quite common. Yellow phosphorus is also used in manufacturing fireworks and fertilizers.  

A crystalline acid formed when phosphorus is oxidized in moist air.  

The chemical reaction of incorporating phosphoric acid into a molecule.  

Chronic poisoning from phosphorus.  

An enzyme that catalyzes reconversion to the ribonucleotide stage of the purine bases, hypoxanthine and guanine. The deficiency of this enzyme is inherited as an X-linked trait.  

The induced luminescence that persists after cessation of the irradiation that caused it; the emission of light without appreciable heat. After being stimulated by radiation of shorter wavelengths, like electrons, ultraviolet light, or x-rays, a fascinating phenomenon of light emission persists for a duration exceeding 10‾⁸ seconds. This mesmerizing display is commonly referred to as…

Impregnated with phosphorus.  

A substance in radiographic intensifying screens, fluoroscopic image intensifies, or other image receptors that convert photons of energy into light, thereby amplifying the image. Any substance exhibiting the properties of phosphorescence, fluorescence, or luminescence.  

A deficiency of phosphorus in the body.