Ferrophosphorus

/ˌfɛroʊˈfɑsfərəs/ noun

Definition

An iron-phosphorus alloy used to add phosphorus to steel and improve its properties during manufacturing.

Etymology

From 'ferro-' (iron) + 'phosphorus' (Greek phos, light + phoros, bearing). Phosphorus compounds were named for their light-emitting properties when discovered in the 17th century.

Kelly Says

Ferrophosphorus acts like a chemical seasoning for steel—just a bit added during manufacturing can make the metal stronger and more resistant to corrosion, similar to how salt changes food flavor.

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