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Explain the high reactivity of white pho...

Explain the high reactivity of white phosphorus as compared to red phosphorus.

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The high reactivity of white phosphorus is due to an unusual bonding that produces considerable strain in the `P_(4)` molecule.The `P_(4)` molecule exists as a discrete molecule whereas the red phosphorus is a polymeric substance in which the tetrahedral, `P_(4)` units are held by covalent bonds as shown in the following structure.
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