Potassium Research Paper

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The periodic table contains many different kinds of elements which are placed accordingly on the table. Potassium is in the alkali metals which is placed in group 1 of the table, alkali metals are among the most active metals. This element was found in 1801 by a man named Humphry Davy. Although the element does not have many uses in pure form as a compound it has many important purposes. Potassium is naturally in the human body if levels become too low or too high then it could cause problems for the individual. Low levels of potassium could cause muscle problems such as cramping and the muscle feeling weak, the person could have a hard time walking or holding onto objects. A serious concern would be the effects on the heart as it causes blood pressure to increase and abnormal heart rhythms.
This element when becoming an isotope can become radioactive due to its high activity as a metal. In its natural state it is a soft metal and it has a shiny “ wax “ like silver/white color to it, it is so soft that a knife could cut through it without a problem. …show more content…

Such as Potassium Carbonate ( CK2O3 ) has an average mass of 138.206 Da. It’s appearance is a powder that is white in color. It is stable and incompatible with moisture and acids.Potassium carbonate is used in pharmaceutical labs to help aid in the drying process. Potassium Nitrate ( KNO3) has an average mass of 101.103 Da with a colorless crystal appearance or in white powder form. It is soluble in water, glycerol, and liquid NH3. It is stable and a strong oxidizer that has a melting point at 334 degrees celsius.Potassium nitrate is found in fertilizers, gunpowder, and in fireworks. Potassium hydrogen carbonate ( KHCO3 ) has an average mass of 100.115 Da and is stable. It also has a white powder or crystal appearance with a melting point at 100 degrees

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