Potassium

dm3=γ | de3=1.460 | pn3= | ps3=- }}

Notable characteristics

With a density less than that of water, potassium is the second lightest metal after lithium. It is a soft solid that can easily be cut with a knife and is silvery in color on fresh surfaces. It oxidizes in air rapidly and must be stored in mineral oil or kerosene for preservation.

Related Topics:
Lithium - Oxidizes - Air - Mineral oil - Kerosene

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Similar to other alkali metals, potassium reacts violently with water producing hydrogen. When in water, it may catch fire spontaneously. Its salts emit a violet color when exposed to a flame.

Related Topics:
Water - Hydrogen - Violet - Color

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