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Potassium tetrafluoroborate

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Identification
Molecular formula
KBF4
CAS number
14075-53-7
IUPAC name
potassium;tetrafluoroborate
State
State

At room temperature, potassium tetrafluoroborate is typically in a solid state, forming crystalline structures.

Melting point (Celsius)
530.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
803.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 500.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 773.00
General information
Molecular weight
125.91g/mol
Molar mass
125.9050g/mol
Density
2.5050g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium tetrafluoroborate appears as a white crystalline solid. It is odorless and readily soluble in water, forming a clear, colorless solution.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Tetrafluoroborate

Potassium tetrafluoroborate, with the chemical formula K2BF4, is known for its interesting solubility characteristics.

Solubility in Water

This compound is generally soluble in water, which makes it useful in various applications where aqueous solutions are required. The solubility can be attributed to:

  • Ionic Nature: As a salt, K2BF4 readily dissociates into its constituent ions (K+ and BF4-) in solution.
  • Hydration: The ions are well-hydrated in water, which stabilizes the solution and promotes solubility.

As a result, potassium tetrafluoroborate is commonly used in the preparation of electrolyte solutions and other chemical processes where solubility is crucial.

Solubility in Other Solvents

When considering solubility in other solvents, the behavior can vary:

  • Polar Solvents: It is likely to show some level of solubility.
  • Non-Polar Solvents: Generally, it is not soluble, aligning with the rule that ionic compounds do not dissolve well in non-polar environments.

Conclusion

In summary, potassium tetrafluoroborate is recognized for its good solubility in water and moderate solubility in polar solvents, while being insoluble in non-polar solvents. This solubility profile makes it a valuable compound in various chemical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Potassium Tetrafluoroborate

Potassium tetrafluoroborate, often encountered in the field of chemistry, is a fascinating ionic compound that highlights the synergy between metallic and non-metallic elements. Here are some noteworthy points about this intriguing compound:

  • Composition: The compound is composed of potassium (K), a highly reactive alkali metal, and tetrafluoroborate ions (BF4-), combining to create a stable ionic crystalline structure.
  • Applications: Potassium tetrafluoroborate has several practical uses in various fields, such as:
    • In the manufacturing of specialty glasses and ceramics.
    • In electronics as an electrolyte in lithium batteries.
    • In organic synthesis, particularly in reactions involving boron compounds.
  • Safety Considerations: While potassium tetrafluoroborate is stable under normal conditions, it is your responsibility as a chemist to handle all chemicals with care. Always utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safety guidelines!
  • Research Potential: Researchers are examining the use of this compound in innovative applications, including its role in superconductivity and the development of advanced materials.
  • Chemical Properties: The unique properties of potassium tetrafluoroborate can be attributed to its tetrahedral BF4- anion, which is responsible for influencing its reactivity and function in various chemical processes.

In conclusion, potassium tetrafluoroborate serves as a remarkable example of how diverse elements can come together to form valuable compounds, paving the way for further discoveries in materials science and beyond. As a student or researcher, delving into the specifics of such compounds can greatly enhance your understanding of the chemistry world!