Po-tas′si-um.
Equivalent, 39.2; symbol, K (kalium); specific gravity, 0.865; fusing-point, 136° Fah. This metallic base of the alkali potassa was discovered by Sir Humphry Davy in 1807. It is a brilliant, silver-white metal, tarnishes immediately on exposure to the atmosphere; is soft at ordinary temperatures, brittle at 32° Fah. Its affinity for oxygen is so energetic that water is decomposed by contact, the liberated hydrogen being inflamed. The salts of potash are very useful in the arts, as ingredients in glazes for pottery, fluxes in glass, in soap-making, washing, gunpowder, etc., etc.Potato-assorter. |