PCl5 is one of the most important phosphorus chlorides, others being PCl3 and POCl3.

It finds use as a chlorinating reagent.

It is prepared by the chlorination of PCl3.

 Phosphorus pentachloride is known to have the salt-like structure in the crystalline state and to be partly dissociated in solution, especially in polar solvents such as nitrobenzene.  Used as a chlorinating agent and catalyst ш making organic chemicals, intermediates, dyestuffs, etc.

Used as a catalyst in the manufacture of acetyl cellulose the plastic film on which motion pictures are printed.

Used as a chlorinating agent in organic chemistry.

Used to produce acid chlorides and as a catalyst for cyclisation and condensation reactions.