Title: Potassium Carbonate
CAS Registry Number: 584-08-7
Synonyms: Salt of tartar; pearl ash
Molecular Formula: CK2O3
Molecular Weight: 138.21
Percent Composition: C 8.69%, K 56.58%, O 34.73%
Line Formula: K2CO3
Properties: Hygroscopic, odorless granules or granular powder. d 2.29; mp 891°. Sol in 1 part cold, 0.7 part boiling water. Practically insol in alcohol. Its aq soln is strongly alkaline. pH 11.6.
Keep tightly closed. LD50 orally in rats: 1.87 g/kg, H. F. Smyth
et al., Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J. 30, 470 (1969).
Melting point: mp 891°
Density: d 2.29
Toxicity data: LD50 orally in rats: 1.87 g/kg, H. F. Smyth
et al., Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J. 30, 470 (1969)
Derivative Type: Sesquihydrate
Properties: Small granular crystals. When it contains the full amount of water (16.36%) it is not hygroscopic. Sol in less than 1 part water. Practically insol in alcohol. The aq soln is strongly alkaline.
CAUTION: Irritant, caustic.
Use: Manuf soap, glass, pottery, smalts and many potassium salts; in process engraving and lithography; tanning and finishing leather; liq shampoos; for removal of water from organic liqs; in anal. chemistry. Pharmaceutic aid (alkalizer).
