The question "What is the pH of potassium?" is inherently ambiguous because potassium is an element, not a solution. Elements do not have a pH value. pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution, indicating the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). Therefore, pure potassium metal will not have a pH value. The references provided contain pH values of potassium compounds, which are ionic substances that have been dissolved in a solvent (water in this case).
The provided document details the pH of several potassium-containing solutions:
| Chemical | Molarity | pH |
|---|---|---|
| Potassium Bicarbonate | 0.1 M | 8.2 |
| Potassium Bioxalate | 0.1 M | 2.7 |
| Potassium Carbonate | 0.1 M | 11.5 |
| Potassium Phosphate, Primary | 0.1 M | 4.5 |
Therefore, the pH value depends entirely on the specific potassium compound and its concentration. Here is a breakdown:
- Potassium Bicarbonate (KHCO₃): A 0.1 M solution of potassium bicarbonate has a pH of 8.2, indicating it is slightly basic.
- Potassium Bioxalate (KHC₂O₄): A 0.1 M solution of potassium bioxalate is acidic, with a pH of 2.7.
- Potassium Carbonate (K₂CO₃): A 0.1 M solution of potassium carbonate is strongly basic, having a pH of 11.5.
- Potassium Phosphate, Primary (KH₂PO₄): A 0.1 M solution of primary potassium phosphate is acidic with a pH of 4.5.
Important points to note:
- pH is a measure of a solution’s acidity or alkalinity and does not apply to elements or solid compounds.
- The pH of a potassium solution is determined by the specific potassium compound present.
- The provided table illustrates how different potassium compounds result in different pH values.
- The concentration of the potassium compound will also affect the pH value.
