Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a chemical element with the symbol P and atomic number 15. In maritime context, phosphorus is commonly used as a signaling device to indicate distress or the need for assistance. The use of phosphorus for signaling at sea dates back to ancient times, when sailors would light fires on hilltops to alert nearby ships of danger or to request aid. Today, phosphorus is used in the form of handheld flares, which emit a bright red light that can be seen from a distance of several miles. These flares are an essential safety device for mariners, and are required by law to be carried on board all vessels.
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