Potassium has 19 protons and electrons, forms ionic bonds, and turns into a cation (K+) when it loses an electron. Ionic compounds like potassium iodide have high melting and boiling points, form crystals, and conduct electricity when melted.
The element potassium (K) is highly reactive due to the presence of one electron in its valence shell. With an atomic number of 19, potassium has 19 protons in its nucleus and, if neutral, also has 19 electrons.
The tendency of potassium to donate this single valence electron makes it an excellent example of an element that typically forms ionic bonds, resulting in the creation of a potassium cation (K+).
The physical and chemical properties of ionic compounds, such as those potassium forms, are characterized by high melting and boiling points, the ability to form crystals, and electrical conductivity when melted or dissolved in water.
Ionic compounds like potassium iodide (KI), which has specific melting and boiling points, are pertinent examples of this behavior.
Moreover, ionic compounds are named according to the types of atoms involved and the nature of the bond between them.
For instance, potassium's Latin name is Kalium, and it is essential in biological cells for functions such as nerve transmission and muscle contractions.