Meaning & Definition of word "Potassium"
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Potassium
/pəˈtæsiəm/
noun:
- 1. A chemical element (symbol K) with atomic number 19, which is a soft, silvery-white metal that is highly reactive and occurs naturally only in ionic salts.
- Example: Potassium is an essential nutrient for plant growth.
- 2. An alkali metal that is crucial for various biological functions in the human body.
- Example: Bananas are well known for their high potassium content.
- 3. The potassium ion (K+), which is vital for maintaining proper cellular function.
- Example: Electrolytic balance in the body is often maintained by adequate levels of potassium.
- 4. A key ingredient in fertilizers that support healthy plant development.
- Example: The farmer applied potassium to the soil to enhance crop yield.
- 5. In chemistry, potassium is found in various compounds, such as potassium chloride and potassium nitrate.
- Example: The laboratory conducted experiments using potassium nitrate as a reagent.
Etymology
The name comes from the English word 'potash', which refers to the ashes of plants, which were used to produce potassium compounds.
Common Phrases and Expressions
potassium chloride:
A chemical compound used for various applications, including as a fertilizer and in medical treatments.
potassium hydroxide:
A strong alkaline compound used in food processing and manufacturing.
Related Words
electrolyte:
A substance that produces an electrically conducting solution when dissolved in a polar solvent, like water.
alkali metal:
Any of the six elements in group 1 of the periodic table.
Slang Meanings of potassium
Meaning: K
Example Sentence: I need to increase my K intake for better health.
Meaning: Potassium boost
Example Sentence: I had a banana for a potassium boost.