Potassium chloride (KCl) is a compound containing potassium and chlorine. It is used as a fertilizer, food additive, and medical treatment for low potassium levels. It can also be used in lethal injections.
| IUPAC Name | Potassium chloride |
| Molecular Formula | KCl |
| CAS Number | 7447-40-7 |
| Synonyms | KCl, Kalium Chloratum, Muriate of Potash, Sylvite, Chloropotassuril, Kalitabs, Klotrix, Klor-Con, K-Dur |
| InChI | InChI=1S/ClH.K/h1H;/q;+1/p-1 |
Potassium chloride formula
The chemical formula for potassium chloride is KCl. It is a binary compound consisting of one potassium atom and one chlorine atom. The formula for potassium chloride is important for understanding its chemical properties and for performing calculations related to its use in various applications.
Potassium chloride molar mass
The molar mass of KCl is 74.55 g/mol. It is a white crystalline solid with a salty taste and is highly soluble in water. KCl is a compound that consists of one potassium atom and one chlorine atom.
Potassium chloride boiling point
The boiling point of KCl is 1,420°C (2,588°F). It is a high-melting-point compound that requires significant energy to reach its boiling point. The high boiling point of KCl makes it useful in high-temperature applications, such as in the production of ceramics and glass.
KCl melting point
The melting point of KCl is 770°C (1,418°F). It is a relatively high-melting-point compound that requires significant heat to melt. KCl is used in the production of fertilizers, and its high melting point helps to ensure that it remains stable at high temperatures.
KCl density g/ml
The density of KCl is 1.98 g/cm³. It is a relatively dense compound, which means that a small amount of it contains a large number of particles. The high density of KCl makes it useful in certain industrial applications, such as in the production of drilling fluids.
KCl molecular weight
The molecular weight of KCl is 74.55 g/mol. It is a relatively light compound, which means that it contains a small number of particles. The low molecular weight of KCl makes it easy to transport and handle in industrial settings.
KCl structure
The structure of KCl is an ionic crystal lattice. It consists of alternating potassium and chlorine ions arranged in a repeating pattern. The ionic nature of the structure means that KCl is a good conductor of electricity when dissolved in water.
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Specific Gravity | 1.98 g/cm³ |
| Color | Colorless to white |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 74.55 g/mol |
| Density | 1.98 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 770°C (1,418°F) |
| Boiling Point | 1,420°C (2,588°F) |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | 34.7 g/100 mL (0°C) |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, glycerol, and formamide; slightly soluble in ethanol |
| Vapor Pressure | Negligible |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable |
| pKa | -1.8 (conjugate acid) |
| pH | 7 (10% solution) |
Potassium Chloride Safety and Hazards
Potassium chloride (KCl) has potential hazards and safety concerns that should be considered when handling or using it. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and prolonged exposure can lead to chemical burns. Inhaling KCl dust can cause respiratory irritation and coughing. Additionally, ingestion of large amounts of KCl can lead to electrolyte imbalances and cardiac arrhythmias. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, and to handle KCl in a well-ventilated area. In case of skin or eye contact, it is important to rinse the affected area with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | Causes skin and eye irritation. Harmful if swallowed. |
| UN ID | UN1480 |
| HS Code | 310420 |
| Hazard Class | 5.1 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Toxicity | LD50 (rat, oral): 2,500 mg/kg |
Potassium Chloride Synthesis Methods
Several methods can synthesize Potassium chloride (KCl), including:
- Solubilization and crystallization: This method involves dissolving KCl in water, and then allowing the solution to evaporate, leaving behind solid KCl crystals.
- Ion exchange: To produce KCl, one can exchange ions in a solution of another salt, such as sodium chloride, with potassium ions. Industries commonly use this method in the production of KCl fertilizer.
- Electrolysis: Electrolyzing a KCl solution produces elemental potassium and chlorine gas, which combine to form KCl.
- Reaction of potassium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid: Potassium hydroxide can react with hydrochloric acid to produce KCl and water.
- Reaction of potassium carbonate with hydrochloric acid: Potassium carbonate can react with hydrochloric acid to produce KCl, carbon dioxide, and water.
Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method may depend on factors such as the required purity of the product, the scale of production, and the cost of raw materials and equipment.
Potassium Chloride Uses
Potassium chloride has a wide range of uses, including:
- Fertilizer: Used as a fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for plant growth.
- Food additive: Used as a salt substitute in processed foods to reduce sodium intake.
- Water treatment: Added to water treatment systems to prevent corrosion and scale formation.
- Medical applications: Used in intravenous fluids and oral rehydration solutions to replace electrolytes and treat conditions such as hypokalemia.
- Industrial applications: Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and soaps, and as a raw material in the production of other chemicals.
- Animal feed: Added to animal feed to provide essential nutrients.
- Deicing agent: Used as a deicing agent to melt ice and snow on roads and sidewalks.
- Oil and gas drilling: Used as a clay stabilizer in oil and gas drilling operations.
- Laboratory reagent: Used as a reagent in laboratory experiments and analysis.
Questions:
Q: What is potassium chloride?
A: Potassium chloride (KCl) is a white crystalline salt that is composed of potassium and chlorine ions. It has a variety of applications in industries such as agriculture, food, medicine, and chemical manufacturing.
Q: What is potassium chloride used for?
A: Potassium chloride is commonly used as a fertilizer, food additive, and in medical applications to treat conditions such as hypokalemia. It can also be used in water treatment, industrial processes, animal feed, deicing, oil and gas drilling, and laboratory experiments.
Q: Is potassium chloride safe?
A: Potassium chloride can be harmful if ingested in large amounts or if it comes into contact with the eyes or skin. It is important to follow appropriate safety guidelines and regulations when handling or using potassium chloride.
Q: Is KCl soluble in water?
A: Yes, KCl is highly soluble in water. At room temperature, one gram of KCl can dissolve in 1.5 mL of water.
Q: Is KCl ionic or covalent?
A: KCl is an ionic compound, as it is composed of positively charged potassium ions and negatively charged chloride ions that are held together by ionic bonds.
Q: Is KCl an acid or base?
A: Potassium chloride is a neutral compound and is neither an acid nor a base.
Q: Is KCl a strong electrolyte?
A: Yes, KCl is a strong electrolyte as it dissociates completely into potassium and chloride ions when dissolved in water, allowing for electrical conductivity.