Potassium (K)
Potassium (K, element 19) is an alkali metal in group 1, period 4. Atomic mass 39.098, electron configuration [Ar] 4s¹, uses and facts.
About Potassium
Potassium is an alkali metal with the symbol K and atomic number 19. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 1, period 4 of the periodic table. Potassium was discovered in 1807 by Humphry Davy.
Potassium key facts
- Atomic number: 19
- Symbol: K
- Atomic mass: 39.098 u
- Category: alkali metal
- Group: 1
- Period: 4
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Ar] 4s¹
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 0.82
- Melting point: 336.53 K (63.38 °C)
- Boiling point: 1032 K (758.85 °C)
- Density: 0.862 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: −1, +1
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of potassium is [Ar] 4s¹. The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells. Potassium has 1 valence electron.
Uses of potassium
- Fertilizers
- Gunpowder
- Nerve function
Did you know?
Your body contains about 140 grams of potassium. Every heartbeat requires potassium ions.
Other elements in group 1 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of potassium?
The atomic number of potassium is 19, which means every potassium atom has 19 protons.
What is the electron configuration of potassium?
The electron configuration of potassium is [Ar] 4s¹.
What group and period is potassium in?
Potassium is an alkali metal in group 1, period 4.
What state is potassium at room temperature?
Potassium is a solid at room temperature.
What is potassium used for?
Potassium is used for fertilizers, gunpowder, nerve function.