The chemical formula for phosphorus in its most elemental form is simply denoted as P. Phosphorus is a nonmetal and is found in several allotropes, with the most common being white phosphorus (P4) and red phosphorus. Each form contains different arrangements of the phosphorus atoms.
In the case of white phosphorus, the formula P4 indicates that four phosphorus atoms are bonded together in a tetrahedral arrangement. This allotrope is highly reactive and is known for its distinctive properties.
Red phosphorus, on the other hand, is often considered more stable and features a network structure of phosphorus atoms, but it does not have a simple molecular formula like P4.
Thus, while the basic representation of phosphorus is just P, it’s important to specify the allotrope when discussing its properties and chemical behavior.