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Potassium hydride

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Identification
Molecular formula
KH
CAS number
7693-26-7
IUPAC name
potassium hydride
State
State

Potassium hydride exists as a solid at room temperature. As a hydride, it is highly reactive, particularly with water, releasing hydrogen gas.

Melting point (Celsius)
350.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
623.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
-1.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
-1.00
General information
Molecular weight
40.11g/mol
Molar mass
40.1060g/mol
Density
1.4300g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium hydride appears as a white to grayish-white powder. It is usually supplied as a dispersion in oil because of its high reactivity with water and air moisture. In pure form, it can appear as large, colorless crystals.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Hydride (KH)

Potassium hydride (KH) is an ionic compound that exhibits unique solubility characteristics influenced by various factors. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Solubility in Water: KH is generally not soluble in water. When it comes into contact with moisture, it reacts vigorously to produce potassium hydroxide (KOH) and hydrogen gas (H2), which makes its direct solubility in water quite detrimental.
  • Reactivity: Due to its strong basic nature, KH reacts with acids and water, which can lead to the formation of soluble potassium salts, further indicating that its solubility is not straightforward.
  • Non-aqueous Solvents: KH shows some degree of solubility in non-aqueous solvents. Its behavior varies notably based on the solvent's properties, including polarity and ability to stabilize ions.
  • Solubility Product (Ksp): The concept of solubility product is not directly applicable for KH in aqueous solutions due to its reactivity; however, understanding its ionic dissociation in other contexts can be insightful.

In conclusion, while potassium hydride (KH) may not dissolve in water, it plays a significant role in chemical reactions that emphasize the intricacies of solubility and reactivity in different conditions. Therefore, when considering KH in practical applications, it’s essential to note that its behavior is highly context-dependent.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Potassium Hydride

Potassium hydride (KH) is a fascinating compound that showcases the unique properties and behaviors of alkali metal hydrides. Here are some intriguing aspects of potassium hydride that every chemistry enthusiast should know:

  • Reactivity: KH is known for its strong reactivity, especially with water. When it reacts with moisture, it produces potassium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, a reaction that can be quite vigorous.
  • Hydrogen Source: It serves as a convenient source of hydrogen in various chemical reactions, particularly in organic synthesis.
  • Base Properties: Potassium hydride is a strong base, and it is often used in deprotonation reactions, making it an essential tool in organic chemistry laboratories.
  • Use in Hydrogenation: KH is widely employed as a reducing agent in hydrogenation reactions, aiding in the conversion of unsaturated compounds to saturated ones.
  • Solid State: In the solid state, KH forms a crystalline structure that allows for easy manipulation in laboratory settings.

Moreover, potassium hydride is sensitive to moisture and carbon dioxide in the air. As such, it is typically handled in an inert atmosphere such as argon or nitrogen to prevent unwanted reactions. Understanding these properties not only highlights the compound's significance in chemical reactions but also illustrates the careful considerations required when working with highly reactive substances. As Robert H. Grubbs, a renowned chemist, noted, “The discovery of a new reaction can lead to the development of new regulations and applications.” This is evident with compounds like KH, which continue to evolve our understanding of chemical reactivity and utilize in innovative ways.

In summary, potassium hydride is more than just a simple hydride; it plays a crucial role in various chemical processes and serves as a prime example of the dynamic interactions found within the realm of chemistry.