2022: Atomic Symbol K (+ Cool facts: Color, Uses and more...)

Every Atom has a symbol to represent them. Some are easy to figure out... But what is the atom whose symbol is K?

The answer is Potassium (K). But there's a lot of secret / fun facts about Potassium that people don't know. Let me walk you through this atom...

Potassium Overview

Atomic Symbol

K (Potassium)

State at 20 °C

Solid

Uses

Used as potash in making glass & soap. Also as saltpeter, potassium nitrate (KNO3) to make explosives and to color fireworks in mauve. Formerly called kalium (K). Vital to function of nerve and muscle tissures.

Sources

Found in minerals like carnallite [(KMgCl3).6H2O] & sylvite (potassium chloride, KCL). Pure metal is produced by the reaction of hot potassium chloride and sodium vapors in a special retort.

Description

Soft, waxy, silver-white metal. Eighth most abundant element in the earth's crust (20,900 ppm). Occurs only in compounds.

Name Origin

English: pot ash; symbol from Latin: kalium, (alkali).

Atomic Number

19

Learn more about the atomic number.

Atomic Mass

39,0983

Discovery

Discovered By: Sir Humphrey Davy

Year: 1807

Location: England

Learn more about the atomic mass.

Want to learn more details? Check my Elements Comprehensive List.

Colored Periodic Table

Need an editable periodic table to edit? Maybe add your school logo, work team or anything else to maker your paper look cool?

Along with basic atom / element information (like Potassium-K and all the other atom symbols / data), it also comes with color coded info about: State (Gas, Liquid or Solid at room temperature), Groups/series details and much more...

How about an incentive to share this post? (You will help other colleagues find this blog)

Download and enjoy this complete and colored periodic table for you to edit and enjoy. It's in an editable excel format or .ods (open).
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