What is 'White phosphorus'?

 

What is 'White phosphorus'?

White phosphorus (WP) when interacts with oxygen, ignites and burns, producing a dense white smoke with an unique garlic-like stench. 

Smoke also obstructs infrared vision and weapon-tracking systems, shielding military units from guided weapons like anti-tank guided missiles.

White phosphorus weapons can inflict damage in two ways: burns and vapour inhalation, in addition to direct injuries caused by particles of their shells.

It's a UN-prohibited weapon since it's employed in smoke, lights, and during wartime to make bombs more lethal. Its use in open areas is legal under international law, but air-bursting phosphorus over inhabited areas is prohibited since it puts civilians in danger and can result in an indiscriminate attack due to the wide dispersion of burning fragments. 

This weapon is deadly because it burns quickly when it comes into contact with air, resulting in tremendous heat and poisonous smoke that can instantly kill a person.

History of white phosphorus

White phosphorus, in the form of a carbon disulfide compound, is believed to have been first employed by Irish nationalist arsonists in the 19th century. The phosphorus would burst into flames when the carbon disulfide evaporated. "Fenian fire" was the name given to this concoction.

Police in Sydney, Australia, arrested 12 industrial workers for using illegal chemicals in 1916, just before World War I broke out. White phosphorus was also alleged to have been employed by these individuals. However, by 1920, the vast majority of those accused had been released.

source india times