Potassium Nitrate
Potassium nitrate is a chemical compound that crystallizes in a colorless form. It is an ionic salt composed of potassium ions (K+) and nitrate ions (NO3−), making it an alkali metal nitrate. This compound can be found naturally as a mineral and serves as a nitrogen source.
- Synonyms
- Saltpeter, Saltpetre, Nitrate of potash, E252
- Chemical Formula
- KNO3
- CAS Number
- 7757-79-1
Characteristics
- Molar Weight
- 101.103 g/mol
- Melting Point
- 334°C
- Boiling Point
- 400°C (decomposes)
- Density
- 2.109 g/cm³
- Forms
- Powder, Colourless
Uses and Applications
Key applications
- Explosives
- Food preservatives
- Oxidising agent
- Pyrotechnics
- Pharmaceuticals
- Cosmetic products
- Macronutrient