#K September 4

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For the month of September 2024 several of us are going to take on the 30-Day Periodic Elements Coach4aday Challenge. The concept is to show the symbol of one of the 118 elements and give a few facts about it. Today I have chosen K

K is the symbol for potassium.

Elements 30-Day Challenge Guidelines

Like previous challenges there are no hard and fast rules to participate. There are a few suggested guidelines.

1. Each day in September 2024 show the symbol for one particular element.
2. Share at least one fact about that element
3. If so inclined use the hash tag #Coach4adayChallenge on social media platforms

September 4th-K

Here are three facts about potassium (K).

Essential for Life: Potassium is a crucial mineral and electrolyte in the human body. It helps regulate fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions. Proper levels of potassium are necessary for the functioning of cells, tissues, and organs, particularly the heart.

Highly Reactive: Potassium is a highly reactive metal, especially with water. When potassium comes into contact with water, it reacts vigorously, often producing heat, hydrogen gas, and a characteristic purple flame. Because of this reactivity, potassium is stored under oil or in an inert atmosphere.

Abundant in Nature: Potassium is the seventh most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. It is found in many minerals, such as feldspar and mica, and is also widely distributed in soil and seawater. In agriculture, potassium is a key component of fertilizers, often referred to as potash, which is essential for plant growth.