Question

What element might be used when storing pure phosphorus to keep it from reacting?

Answer 1

Argon is often used for storing chemicals because it is a noble gas and pretty much totally nonreactive. Nitrogen is also a possible answer, as it mostly doesn't reactive with phosphorus and is more readily available.

Answer 2

An element, which can be used to store pure phosphorus to keep it from reacting is ARGON.

Phosphorus exist in three different forms, white, red and black phosphorus. The red and the black phosphorus are quite stable but the white phosphorus is unstable and can explode when it comes in contact with oxygen. Because of this, it is usually stored under water. Argon also can be used to store the white phosphorus, because it an inert element and will not react with the phosphorus.