Potassium nitrate, also known as saltpeter, is a white crystalline solid with the chemical formula KNO3.
It is an ionic salt composed of potassium ions (K+) and nitrate ions (NO3-).
Here are some key properties of potassium nitrate:
- Appearance: White crystalline solid
- Chemical formula: KNO3
- Molar mass: 101.10 g/mol
- Melting point: 334 °C (633 °F)
- Boiling point: 400 °C (752 °F)
- Density: 2.11 g/cm³
- Solubility: Soluble in water, slightly soluble in most alcohols
Potassium nitrate has a wide range of applications, including:
- Fertilizers: It is a valuable source of nitrogen and potassium, essential nutrients for plant growth.
- Explosives: It is a key ingredient in gunpowder and other explosives.
- Food preservative: It is used to preserve meat and prevent bacterial growth.
- Toothpaste: It is added to some toothpastes to reduce tooth sensitivity
- Tree stump removal: It is used to accelerate the decomposition of tree stumps.
- Rocket propellants: It is used as an oxidizer in solid rocket propellants.
