Potassium (K) — Alkali metal. Atomic number 19.
Soft silvery metal
- Atomic number: 19
- Symbol: K
- Atomic mass: 39.098 u
- Category: Alkali metal
- State: Solid
- Melting point: 63.35 °C / 336.5 K
- Boiling point: 758.85 °C / 1032 K
- Density: 0.862 g/cm³ (20°C)
- Electron configuration: [Ar] 4s1
- Oxidation states: +1
- Electronegativity: 0.82
- Discovered by: Humphry Davy (1807)
Common uses: Fertilizers, Glass production, Chemical synthesis
Biological role: Essential electrolyte for nerve and muscle function.
Frequently Asked Questions about Potassium
What is the atomic number of potassium?
Potassium has an atomic number of 19, meaning each atom contains 19 protons in its nucleus.
What is the atomic mass of potassium?
The standard atomic weight of potassium is 39.098 u (unified atomic mass units).
What category does potassium belong to?
Potassium is classified as a alkali metal.
What is the state of potassium at room temperature?
Potassium is a solid at 20 °C (68 °F).
What is the melting point of potassium?
The melting point of potassium is 63.35 °C / 336.5 K.
What is the boiling point of potassium?
The boiling point of potassium is 758.85 °C / 1032 K.
What is the density of potassium?
The density of potassium is 0.862 g/cm³ (20°C).
What is the electronegativity of potassium?
Potassium has a Pauling electronegativity of 0.82.
What is the electron configuration of potassium?
The electron configuration of potassium is [Ar] 4s1.
What are the common oxidation states of potassium?
Potassium commonly exhibits the following oxidation states: +1.
When was potassium discovered?
Potassium was discovered in 1807 by Humphry Davy.
Is potassium radioactive?
Potassium is a stable element with no naturally occurring radioactive isotopes.
What is the biological role of potassium?
Essential electrolyte for nerve and muscle function.
What are the common uses of potassium?
Potassium is used for: Fertilizers; Glass production; Chemical synthesis.
