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Potassium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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potassium

[pษ™หˆtรฆs.i.ษ™m ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Potassium is a chemical element with the symbol K and atomic number 19. It is a soft, silvery-white metal that is highly reactive, especially in water. Potassium is essential for life and is a key component in various biological processes, including nerve function and muscle contraction. It is commonly found in minerals and is crucial for plant growth. Industrially, potassium is used in fertilizers, fireworks, and as a salt substitute.

Synonyms

k, potash.

Examples of usage

  • Bananas are rich in potassium.
  • Too much potassium can be harmful to health.
  • Potassium helps regulate blood pressure.
  • Many fertilizers contain potassium.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Potassium is a key electrolyte, essential for the proper functioning of cells, including maintaining fluid balance in the body.
  • It plays a vital role in nerve function, helping to transmit electrical signals between cells.
  • Bananas, often associated with potassium, contain about 422 mg of potassium in a medium-sized fruit, making it a popular source.

Health

  • Adequate potassium intake helps to lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke, promoting overall cardiovascular health.
  • A diet rich in potassium can help counterbalance the negative effects of sodium, which is linked to high blood pressure.
  • Many leafy greens, beans, and certain fruits like oranges also serve as excellent sources of this essential mineral.

Popular Culture

  • Potassium is often humorously referred to in popular media, such as jokes about monkeys and bananas, drawing connections to health and energy.
  • In science fiction, potassium-rich environments are sometimes depicted as vital for alien life systems, emphasizing its significance in biology.

Agriculture

  • Potassium fertilizers are essential for plant growth, as they help regulate plant water supply and nutrient uptake.
  • Farmers use potassium to improve crop yields and quality, particularly in fruits and vegetables.

Origin of 'potassium'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'potassium' comes from the word 'potash', which refers to the ashes of plants burned in pots that were used to make soap.
  • It was first isolated in 1807 by Sir Humphry Davy, who used electrolysis to separate it from potash.

The word 'potassium' comes from the English word 'potash', which refers to the ashes of plants soaked in water. The term 'potash' was derived from the old practice of leaching wood ashes in pots to create the substance. In 1807, Sir Humphry Davy isolated potassium from potash using electrolysis, marking the discovery of potassium as a distinct element. He named it derived from the potash source, using the Latin word 'kalium', which means 'alkali', to form with the symbol K. The name has since become well-established in chemistry, representing the importance of potassium in both agriculture and health.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,297, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.