39.098
Atomic Mass (u)
63.38 C
Melting Point
759 C
Boiling Point
0.862 g/cm3
Density
0.82
Electronegativity
[Ar] 4s1
Electron Config
4
Period
1
Group
📖 About Potassium
Essential for all living cells, regulating fluid balance, nerve impulses, and heart rhythm. Its symbol K comes from the Latin "Kalium." Potassium reacts violently with water, producing hydrogen gas and catching fire. Potassium-40 is a naturally radioactive isotope present in all living things, including humans.
🔧 Uses and Applications
- Fertilizers (potash)
- Essential electrolyte in the body
- Potassium chloride (salt substitute)
- Soap production
- Nuclear medicine (potassium-40)
💡 Did You Know?
Fact: The average human body contains about 140 grams of potassium. Bananas are famous for potassium content, but you would need to eat about 10 million bananas to receive a lethal radiation dose from their natural potassium-40 content.