The periodic table/Potassium

Discovery
Potassium was discovered by Sir Humphrey Davy in 1807. This alkali metal was the first metal that was isolated by electrolysis. The name comes from the Arabic word, القَلْيَه‎ (al-qali), meaning Plant Ashes.

Quick Facts
Name: potassium atom

Symbol: K

Atomic Mass: 39

Classification: alkali metals

Protons: 19

Electrons: 19

Neutrons: 20

Color: silvery-white

Discovery in: 1807

Density: 0.89 g/cm3

Crystal Structure: cubic

Melting Point: 49 °C

Boiling Point: 774 °C

Common Uses: glass, soap, substitute for table salt, fertilizers, gunpowder, medical uses