What is Potassium acetate?
CH3CO2K is a potassium salt of acetic acid with chemical name Potassium acetate. It is also called Diuretic salt or Potassium ethanoate, or Acetic acid potassium salt. It is an essential macro-mineral and a potassium salt which consists of equal number of acetate and potassium ions.
Diuretic salt is a deliquescent white crystalline powder. It is soluble in water and has a pH value between 7.5-9.0. It is widely used to replenish electrolytes, as a urinary and systemic alkalizer. Earlier it was used in expectorants and diuretics. Potassium helps in maintaining intracellular tonicity, which is required for nerve conduction, smooth muscle contraction, normal renal function, and maintenance of blood pressure.
Properties of Potassium acetate – CH3CO2K
|
CH3CO2K |
Potassium acetate |
|
Molecular weight of CH3CO2K |
98.142 g/mol |
|
Density of Potassium acetate |
1.8 g/cm3 |
|
Boiling point of Potassium acetate |
Decomposes |
|
Melting Point of Potassium acetate |
292 °C |
Potassium acetate structure – CH3CO2K
CH3CO2K Uses (Potassium acetate)
- Potassium acetate is used as a deicer to remove ice and stop its formation.
- Used as a food preservative.
- Used as a catalyst to produce polyurethanes.
- Used in molecular biology to precipitate dodecyl sulfate.
- Used in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Used in the making of lubricants.
- Used as a food acidity regulator.
- Used in fire suppression.
- Used in laboratory chemicals.
- Used in agricultural chemicals.
Preparation of Potassium acetate
Potassium ethanoate can be generated by treating a potassium containing base like potassium hydroxide (KOH) or potassium carbonate (K2CO3) with acetic acid (CH3COOH). The reaction is as follows:
CH3COOH + KOH → CH3COOK + H2O
The above reaction is termed as an acid-base neutralization reaction.
At around temperature range of 41.3 °C the sesquihydrate in water solution starts forming semi hydrates.
Historical
Acetic acid potassium salt was initially used to prepare Cadet’s fuming liquid which is known to be the first organometallic compound produced. This compound was used as urinary alkaliser and a diuretic. It functions by changing the physical properties of body fluids.
Learn more about the Structure, physical and chemical properties of CH3CO2K from the experts at BYJU’S.
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