ELi5: What makes white phosphorus so dangerous when used as a weapon of war?

Question

ELi5: What makes white phosphorus so dangerous when used as a weapon of war?

In: 291

Answer 1

In addition to the other good answers here, WP can survive (not burn) if it’s covered with dirt. As a Canadian infantryman, mid 1980s, I personally kicked over a clump of dirt and *poof*, a small bit of WP started on fire. Could be dangerous if combustibles nearby (grass, leaves, etc.). We knew to expect it. Didn’t happen often.