- Potassium was discovered by Humphry Davy in 1807.
- It is derived from caustic potash ( KOH potassium hydroxide ). In Latin Kalium.
- The metal must be stored in mineral oil, such as kerosene as it oxidizes rapidly in air and catches fire spontaneously when exposed to water.
- Potassium ions are necessary for the function of all living cells.
- Soft silvery white alkali metal and very reactive in water.
- Sylvite, langbernite, carnalite and polyhalite from extensive deposits in ancient lake and sea beds from which potassium can be obtained.
Symbol - K
Atomic number - 19
Number of electrons - 2, 8, 8, 1
Electronic configuration - [ Argon ] 4s1
Melting point - 336.53 K
Boiling point - 1032 K
Uses:
- Potassium is a mineral that plays many critical roles in the body.
- Potassium is used for treating and preventing low potassium levels.
- Potassium is in high demand as a fertilizer.
- Metallic potassium is used in several types of magnetometers.
- Potassium also used in food preservative, bleach textile and straw and in tanning of leathers.
- Potassium salts have many commercial uses.
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