Phosphorus is stored under water to prevent it from
Answer Details
Phosphorus is stored under water to prevent it from catching fire. Phosphorus is a highly reactive element and readily reacts with oxygen in the air, resulting in combustion. When exposed to air, it reacts with the oxygen to form phosphorus pentoxide, which is highly flammable and can ignite spontaneously in air. To prevent this reaction from occurring, phosphorus is stored under water, which acts as a barrier between the phosphorus and the air, preventing it from catching fire.