Decided to thoroughly study all the chemical elements and their compounds? Not a bad desire, I suggest starting with potassium. You can find out its data as a substance by looking at the periodic system of D. I. Mendeleev with a trained eye. But have you heard anything about his compounds? I'm sure many will just shake their heads in response. Today we will look at five of the most famous compounds of this metal: bromide, hydroxide, carbonate, nitrate, sulfate and potassium cyanide.
1. Potassium bromide
Its formula is KBr. It has the appearance of a colorless crystalline substance. Also, in some sources, this potassium s alt, the source of the residue (Br) of which is hydrobromic acid, may be called potassium bromide. It is used as a source of bromide ions to form a silver compound with the same acidic residue. Potassium bromide can also relieve allergies caused by fruit flies. It is also used to study IR spectra.
2. Potassium hydroxide
His formula is CON. In different sources, it can be called potassium lye, caustic potash, caustic potash. It has the appearance of colorless crystals with a high level of hygroscopicity. Thanks to him, you can get potassium cyanide. This alkaliknown as food additive E525 and electrolyte in an alkaline battery. Methane, various potassium s alts and defluorinated zirconium hydroxide are also obtained with the help of this compound.
3. Potassium carbonate
His formula is K2CO3. Also, this substance can be called caustic potassium or potash. Under normal conditions, it is presented in the form of a white crystalline substance. It is used to make liquid soap, crystal or refractory glass. It is also a good fertilizer for agricultural crops. It is known as an antifreeze additive in concrete, as well as a preservative E501.
4. Potassium nitrate
His formula is KNO3. In different sources it can be found under the name of potassium, potash or Indian nitrate. It is usually distributed in the form of small, non-volatile and slightly hygroscopic, odorless crystals. Known as a valuable fertilizer, an important ingredient in pyrotechnic substances and devices, a strong oxidizing agent and food additive E252.
5. Potassium sulfate
Its formula is K2SO4. Presented as colorless crystals. This is an excellent chlorine free fertilizer. When producing glass, various alums and fluxes, this potassium s alt is an indispensable ingredient.
6. Potassium cyanide
Its formula is KCN, and it is perhaps one of the most dangerous substances. It cannot explode or self-ignite, however, the acid residuecyanide and potassium in one compound - without exaggeration, a "lethal mixture" for humans, plants and animals. Instant death occurs when ingested from 1.7 mg/kg of this substance. But without his participation, the extraction of silver and gold from ores, the electroplating of many precious metals, as well as jewelry are not complete.
Conclusion
This is not all compounds of this metal. Bromide, hydroxide, carbonate, nitrate, sulfate, and potassium cyanide are only a small fraction of the gigantic list of inorganic substances containing this element. But there are also its organic compounds - for example, lactate, sorbate, fulminate, etc. etc. But this is a completely different topic.
