Potassium (K)

Alkali Metals | Atomic Number: 19

Basic Properties

K
19
39.098 g/mol
Element Category Alkali Metals
Atomic Number 19
Atomic Weight 39.098 g/mol
Crystal Structure Body-centered cubic (BCC)

Crystal Structure Visualization

Loading...

Description

Potassium is a silvery-white metal that oxidizes rapidly in air. It's vital for plant and animal life.
Density 0.89 g/cm³
Tensile Strength N/A
Hardness Soft
Melting Point 63.5°C
Boiling Point 759°C
Thermal Conductivity 102 W/(m·K)
Electrical Conductivity 1.4 × 10^7 S/m
Corrosion Resistance Very Low

Applications

Used in fertilizers and chemical production.

Production Methods

Extracted from potash ores.

History

Discovered in 1807.