POTASSIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Potassium is a chemical element that belongs to the alkali metal group, denoted by the symbol K in the periodic table. It is a soft, silvery-white metallic element that has a high reactivity with water and oxygen. Potassium is the seventh most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is widely distributed in nature.
In biological systems, potassium is an essential mineral for the functioning of cells and various bodily processes. It plays a crucial role in maintaining proper electrical conductivity in the nerves and muscles, including the heart. Potassium is an electrolyte that helps balance fluid levels in the body and ensures proper pH levels. It also aids in the proper functioning of the kidneys and the regulation of blood pressure.
Potassium is commonly found in various foods, such as fruits (oranges, bananas, avocados), vegetables (spinach, potatoes, tomatoes), and legumes (beans, lentils). A deficiency in potassium, known as hypokalemia, can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue. Conversely, excessive levels of potassium, known as hyperkalemia, can cause heart arrhythmias, muscle paralysis, and can be life-threatening.
Potassium compounds are widely used in various industries and applications. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is an important industrial chemical used in the production of soaps, detergents, and fertilizers. Potassium nitrate (KNO3) is an essential ingredient in gunpowder and fireworks. Given its versatility and essential role in biology, agriculture, and industry, potassium is a crucial element with numerous applications and great significance in our daily lives.
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Kalium, an alkaline metallic element, symbol K (kalium), atomic weight 39.1, occurring abundantly in nature but always in combination. It is a soft silvery white or gray, lustrous substance. Its salts are largely used in medicine. For the salts of potassium see under potassii.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The metallic basis of potash.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of POTASSIUM
The word "potassium" derives from the English word "potash". Potash is an alkaline substance obtained by leaching wood ashes and evaporating the solution, which was used in early times for making soap, glass, and fertilizer. The term "potash" is a compound word, with "pot" referring to a pot used for boiling liquids, and "ash" referring to the remaining solid material after burning something. "Potash" was later modified to "potassium" by the English chemist Humphry Davy when he discovered and isolated the element in 1807. The suffix "-ium" is a commonly used suffix in chemistry to denote an element.
Similar spelling word for POTASSIUM
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