Final answer:
The student's chemistry question pertains to a reaction involving solid calcium phosphate, which forms solid phosphorus, calcium silicate, and carbon monoxide gas. This process is significant in creating phosphorus compounds used in fertilizers and various other industries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question involves a chemical reaction where solid calcium phosphate reacts with solid silicon dioxide and solid carbon to produce solid phosphorus, solid calcium silicate, and gaseous carbon monoxide. The provided chemical equation appropriately represents this transformation:
2Ca3(PO4)2 (s) + 6SiO₂ (s) + 10C(s) → 6CaSiO3 (s) + 10CO(g) + P4 (s)
This reaction is part of the process used in the preparation of phosphorus compounds, which are essential in various industries, including agriculture for fertilizers and chemicals. Additionally, phosphorus plays a crucial role in the manufacture of certain alloys, pesticides, matches, and plastics. The unique properties and various oxidation states of phosphorus, such as 3-, 3+, and 5+, make it a versatile element in the formation of numerous compounds.