Electrolysis setup
The origin of the elements name potassium comes from the Dutch word “potash”. Its chemical symbol, “K”, comes from the Arabic word al-qalya, meaning plant-ashes, formed into the Latin word "kalium", most likely because it is an alkali metal (alkali is a group of metals which have similar characteristics e.g. silver colour and soft
Physical Properties
The properties of potassium are that it consists of 19 electrons and 19 protons in its unchanged state with 20 neutrons. It is also likely to lose an electron to other elements then to gain one. Potassium, in its pure form, is silvery-white with a dull sheen, and is very soft with a low melting point of 63.65 degrees Celsius. It is usually found in its element form in nature because of its reactive properties. It can bond with other compounds to form Silvite, the mineral form of Potassium Chloride and Feldspar, the mineral which make up as much as 60% of the Earth's crust. Other interesting properties are that potassium is the second densest element before lithium and when left to exposure of air, its colour fades to grey.
Potassium in its metal state.
Chemical Properties
Potassium is a very reactive metal and particularly reactive towards oxygen or water. When mixed with either 2 it changes into (water) and (oxygen) and will light on fire. To stop potassium from reacting with air or water it’s put in kerosene where it can does not react and can be easily separated for use and also protected.
Where the element is found and obtained, plus uses
Potassium makes up nearly 3% of the Earth's crust and is the seventh most abundant element on the planet. It is naturally found in many foods such as bananas and tomatoes where it is vital for respiratory functions and body growth. Potassium is never found by itself without manmade help but can be isolated by use of electrolysis as stated. Potassium can also be found in potash its source where they are mined for commercial production in countries like Canada and Brazil.
The uses of the element are that plants need potassium to grow. Potassium can be found it most soils, usually in the form of potassium chloride or potassium nitrate In addition, potassium chloride is a salt substitute and aids in the production of other chemicals. Potassium nitrate makes the heads of and pyrotechnics (it is the major component of gunpowder.) Potassium hydroxide can be found in soaps, detergents and drain cleaners. Potassium carbonate or pearl ash is a product of ammonia that can be found in certain types of soap and glass.
Little known Facts
- Pure potassium is a lightweight silvery metal that is soft enough to cut with a knife.
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The potassium ion is important for all living cells. Animals use ions and potassium ions to generate electric potentials. This is vital for many cellular processes and is the basis for the conduction of nerve impulses.
- Potassium compounds emit a lilac or violet flame color when burned.
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Potassium is used as a heat transfer medium. Its salts are used as a fertilizer, oxidizer, colorant, to form strong bases, as a salt substitute, and for many other .
Drawing of the Element.