CAS 7440-09-7: Potassium

Potassium is a mineral nutrient that is essential for the proper functioning of many physiological processes. It is found in fruits, vegetables, and meats. The absorption of potassium by the intestines is regulated by the hormone aldosterone. Potassium also plays a role in maintaining normal blood pressure levels and regulating heart rate. In addition to its role as an electrolyte, potassium is also important in cellular metabolism because it binds to calcium ions and regulates their movement across cell membranes. High concentrations of potassium are found in the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. Low levels of potassium can lead to muscle cramps and weakness, irregular heartbeat, cardiac arrest, or even death.

Potassium combines under pressure with silver metal to form 2 new compounds: K2Ag and K3Ag. This chemical is important in neuron (brain and nerve) function, and in influencing osmotic balance between cells and the interstitial fluid, with their distribution mediated in all animals (but not in all plants) by the so-called Na+/K+-ATPase pump. It is also used to prevent muscle contraction and the sending of all nerve impulses in animals through action potentials. Potassium ion is a nutrient necessary for human life and health. It is used as reducing agent in organic synthesis. This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.

Potassium forms a blue solution in tetrahydrofoliate which is used for the ? -monoalkylation of -lactones in the presence of 18-crown-6. It is used for generation of potassium ethoxide in solution, for use in the Birch reduction of an aromatic ring, for preparation of potassium amide, This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.

Potassium 99% (breakseal ampoule)

Potassium (99%) (prescored ampoule)

This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Acros Organics product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Acros Organics product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.