Skip to main content

Potassium ion

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
K+
CAS number
24203-36-9
IUPAC name
potassium(1+)
State
State

At room temperature, the potassium ion is typically present in aqueous solutions as part of ionic compounds. Potassium compounds are often soluble in water, resulting in the presence of K+ ions. In a non-combined state, it does not exist freely but rather is involved chemically with anions to form crystalline structures or dissolved states in liquid.

Melting point (Celsius)
63.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
336.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
759.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 032.15
General information
Molecular weight
39.10g/mol
Molar mass
39.0980g/mol
Density
0.8620g/cm3
Appearence

The potassium ion is not visibly distinctive in solution form. It is typically undetectable by eye and is found as an aqueous ion. In its solid form, it would often be found as part of a compound where it participates in forming salts and would typically appear as a white crystalline powder if isolated in pure ionic lattice form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Ions (K+)

Potassium ions, represented as K+, are highly soluble in water, making them an essential component in various chemical and biological processes. The solubility of K+ can be attributed to several key factors:

  • Highly Ionic: K+ is a cation formed from potassium, which readily interacts with water molecules.
  • Hydration Shell: When dissolved, K+ ions become surrounded by water molecules, forming a hydration shell that stabilizes the ions.
  • Strong Solvent Effect: Water, being a polar solvent, effectively dissociates ionic compounds, facilitating the solubility of K+.

In summary, the solubility of K+ is a remarkable feature that supports its role in important biological functions, nutrient uptake in plants, and many industrial applications. Thus, we can conclude that:

  1. Potassium ions are highly soluble in aqueous solutions.
  2. This solubility plays a crucial role in biological systems.
Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Potassium Ion (K+)

The potassium ion, represented as K+, is a vital component in various biological and chemical processes. Here are some fascinating aspects of this ubiquitous ion:

  • Essential for Life: K+ plays a crucial role in cellular function. It is fundamental for maintaining membrane potential, which is essential for the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
  • Regulator of Osmotic Pressure: In living cells, potassium ions help regulate osmotic pressure and fluid balance. This is important for the survival of cells, especially in plants where cell turgor is crucial.
  • Kaliophiles: Certain organisms, known as kaliophiles, thrive in high-potassium environments. They utilize K+ ions in unique metabolic pathways.
  • Electrolyte Balance: K+ is one of the key electrolytes in the human body. Its balance is critical for physiological functions, and disturbances can lead to conditions such as hyperkalemia or hypokalemia.
  • Secondary Messenger: In signal transduction pathways, K+ can act as a secondary messenger, influencing various cellular responses to external stimuli.

As the third most abundant cation in biological systems, potassium is significant not just for its presence, but for its diverse roles in health and disease. In the words of the renowned chemist Linus Pauling, "The best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas." This sentiment resonates with the study of ions such as K+, as their importance expands in multiple scientific disciplines, from biochemistry to environmental science.

Synonyms
potassium ion
Potassium cation
potassium(1+)
24203-36-9
Potassium (ion)
Potassium(+)
Potassium, ion (K1+)
potassium(I) cation
potassium(I)
Liver regeneration factor 1
Potassium ion(+)
Potassium monocation
Potassium (K+)
potassium(1+) ion
Potassium ion(1+)
Potassium ion (K+)
CHEBI:29103
UNII-295O53K152
K+
295O53K152
DTXSID9042671
125352-08-1
138363-30-1
K(+)
Skin Affections
Nasel congestion
Potassium+
Colds Dry Cough
Runny Nose Warts
Headache Nervousness
Nabumeton A (TN)
Potassium (1+)
Sore Throat 911
Potassium ion (K1+)
CHEMBL1233793
DTXCID7022671
DB01345
Potassium, ion (K1+) (8CI,9CI)
NS00077124
C00238
D08403
Q15901933
K1+