Potassium

Basic Information Crystal Structure Isotope Facts Related Links


Basic Data

Symbol: K
Atomic Number: 19
Atomic weight: 39.0983u
Melting Point: 336.35K
Boiling Point: 1032K
Number of Protons/Electrons: 19
Number of Neutrons: 20
Classification: Alkali Metal
Crystal Structure: Body centered cubic
Density 0.86g/mL
Color: Silvery
Bonding radius: 2.03A
Atomic radius: 2.77A
Ionization Potential: 4.341V
Electronegativity: 0.82
Heat of vaporization: 79.87kJ/mol
Heat of fusion: 2.334kJ/mol
Specific heat: 0.75J/gK
Electron configuration: [Ar]4s1



Crystal Structure


Isotopes

Isotope Half Life
K39 Stable
K40 1.28E9 years
K41 Stable
K42 12.4 hours
K43 22.3 hours


Facts

Date of Discovery: 1807
Discoverer: Sir Humphrey Davy
Uses: glass, soap
Obtained From: minerals (carnallite)


Related Links

HHMI Laboratory Safety: Potassium Information about the dangers of potassium