Potassium

Potassium is a soft, silvery-white metal that belongs to the alkali metal group on the periodic table, with the chemical symbol K and atomic number 19. It is highly reactive, especially with water, producing potassium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. Due to its reactivity, potassium is never found in its elemental form in nature but commonly occurs in compounds such as potassium chloride and potassium carbonate.

Potassium is essential for various biological functions. It plays a critical role in nerve signal transmission, muscle contraction, and maintaining proper fluid balance in cells. In the human body, potassium helps regulate heartbeat and supports the function of muscles and nerves.

Industrially, potassium compounds are used in fertilizers, glass manufacturing, and as a key ingredient in soaps and detergents. Potassium’s properties also make it valuable in chemical synthesis and as a heat transfer medium in certain specialized applications.