Potassium superoxide (KO 2) can create oxygen from water vapor (H 2O) and carbon dioxide (CO 2) through the following reaction: 2KO 2 + H 2O + 2CO 2 => 2KHCO 3 + O 2. Potassium carbonate (KHCO 3), also known as pearl ash, is used to make some types of glass and soaps and is obtained commercially as a byproduct of the production of ammonia. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is used to make soaps, detergents and drain cleaners. It is used in fertilizers, as a salt substitute and to produce other chemicals. Potassium chloride (KCl) is the most common potassium compound. Potassium forms many important compounds. ![]() Potassium forms an alloy with sodium (NaK) that is used as a heat transfer medium in some types of nuclear reactors. To prevent it from reacting with the oxygen and water in the air, samples of metallic potassium are usually stored submerged in mineral oil. Enough heat is produced to ignite the hydrogen gas. It reacts with oxygen to form potassium superoxide (KO 2) and with water to form potassium hydroxide (KOH), hydrogen gas and heat. Pure potassium is a soft, waxy metal that can be easily cut with a knife. Caustic potash, another important source of potassium, is primarily mined in Germany, New Mexico, California and Utah. These minerals are often found in ancient lake and sea beds.
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