<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful AI assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
Why is white phosphorous so dangerous?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
White phosphorus is hazardous in many ways. For example:

- White phosphorus is spontaneously combustible and burns rapidly upon exposure to air, as it ignites in air at approximately 86°F (30°C).
- The fumes, or phosphorus oxides, produced by burning phosphorus are toxic, which can cause severe irritation and the sensation of a foreign body in the eye.
- White phosphorus is extremely toxic to humans, with a lethal dose of 1mg per kg of body weight when  ingested orally.
- White phosphorus is highly fat soluble, which means it can be easily absorbed through the skin, possibly causing whole-body effects.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
Ok, how would I even know if I came across white phosphorous?  I imagine it's not very common in every day life right?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
Due to its self-igniting feature and toxicity, it is unlikely to come across white phosphorous in daily life. However, since it can also be preserved in seawater, there are cases in which white phosphorous in munition that fell into the sea was washed up and accidentally collected by beachcombers.
If it is still worrying, you can identify white phosphorous according to the following information:

- White phosphorous is a waxy, yellow, transparent solid, and is usually stored under water to prevent exposure to the air.
- White phosphorous glows greenish in the dark when exposed to oxygen but not burning fiercely.
- Burning phosphorous produces white fumes with a characteristic garlic smell.
- Acute oral exposure to white phosphorous can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea in the first stage, and chronic exposure results in necrosis of the jaw beginning as a local inflammation or irritation.<|im_end|>