Meaning & Definition of word "Potassium"

to

arrow

    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.