Phosphorus pentoxide is a deliquescent compound prepared by reacting phosphorus with air. It is a commonly used as dehydrating and condensing agent in organic synthesis.

Phosphorus pentoxide can be used to produce phosphate esters with a mono/di ester content. The acid is reacted directly with the appropriate alcohol or phenol to produce the acidic phosphate ester. 

It reacts with water to form phosphoric acid H3PO4. It is highly exothermic and leads to formation of fumes. Diphosphorous Pentoxide is s very powerful dehydrating agent.

PHOSPHORUS PENTOXIDE AR