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Potassium Chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
KCl
CAS number
7447-40-7
IUPAC name
potassium;chloride
State
State

At room temperature, potassium chloride is in a solid state. It is stable, and it readily dissolves in water, forming a colorless solution.

Melting point (Celsius)
770.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 043.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 420.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 693.00
General information
Molecular weight
74.55g/mol
Molar mass
74.5510g/mol
Density
1.9840g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium chloride is typically a white, crystalline solid. It may appear as small, translucent crystals or as a fine, granulated powder. The compound resembles table salt in appearance, and it is odorless.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Chloride (KCl)

Potasium chloride (KCl), a widely used compound, offers intriguing insights into its solubility behavior.

General Solubility

KCl is highly soluble in water, with a solubility rate of approximately 34 grams per 100 milliliters at 25°C. This property makes it particularly effective in various applications, especially in biological and industrial contexts.

Influencing Factors

The solubility of KCl can be influenced by several factors, including:

  • Temperature: As the temperature increases, the solubility of KCl generally increases.
  • pH Levels: The solubility remains relatively unaffected by pH; however, extreme conditions may alter solvation behaviors.
  • Ionic Strength: The presence of other ions can affect solubility through changes in the overall ionic environment.

Practical Implications

This solubility profile makes potassium chloride an important reagent in many fields, including:

  • Agriculture: Used as a potassium fertilizer.
  • Medical: Employed in certain IV solutions and pharmaceuticals.
  • Food Industry: Acts as a salt substitute in food processing.

In summary, the solubility of KCl plays an essential role in its functionality across diverse applications, making it a vital compound in both scientific and practical realms.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Potassium Chloride

Potassium chloride, commonly known as KCl, is a versatile compound that holds significant importance in both industrial applications and biological functions. Here are some fascinating insights into this ionic compound:

  • Essential Nutrient: Potassium is a vital nutrient for plant growth. It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes such as photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and water regulation within plants.
  • Medical Uses: In medicine, potassium chloride is often used to treat or prevent potassium deficiency. It is sometimes administered intravenously to patients, especially those with certain medical conditions that affect electrolyte balance.
  • Food Industry: As a food additive, KCl is commonly used as a salt substitute to reduce sodium intake. It provides a salty flavor without the adverse health implications associated with high sodium levels.
  • Fertilizer Component: Potassium chloride is a key component of many fertilizers, contributing to improved crop yield and quality by enhancing the plants' resistance to diseases and drought.
  • Electrolyte Balance: Potassium plays an essential role in maintaining the body’s electrolyte balance, which is critical for proper muscle function and nervous system signaling.

In summary, potassium chloride is not just an ordinary compound—it's a vital element for life and plays multifaceted roles in our health and agriculture. As we explore its various applications, it becomes clear that KCl is an essential building block in both the chemical and biological worlds.