Name:  Potassium

Atomic Symbol and Mass Number: K [19]

Electron Configuration of the Element: [Ar] 4s

Atomic Radii: 280 pm

Electron Affinity: 48.4 kJ mol-1

Oxidation states: +1, -1

Electronegativity value: 0.82

Elemental Group: Alkali Metal

Uses and properties:

• Elemental potassium is highly reactive and must be handled with care

• Silvery-white, low melting metal soft enough to be cut with a knife

• Burns with a lilac colored flame

• Vital for plant growth and development

• Potassium hydroxide is a strong industrial chemical used in the manufacture of soaps and alkaline batteries

• Potassium chloride is used as an alternative to table salt

• Main explosive ingredient in gunpowder (Potassium nitrate)

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Lewis diagram: