Potassium burning
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Potassium burning
Potassium burning in air. Potassium (K) is a soft, highly reactive, alkali metal. In air it will burn with a brilliant flame to form potassium dioxide (or potassium superoxide, KO2). Potassium is the seventh most abundant metal in the Earths crust, but is not found in its elemental form
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Media ID 6294447
© ANDREW LAMBERT PHOTOGRAPHY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Alight Alkali Alkali Metal Atmosphere Burning Combusting Combustion Element Elemental Experiment Flame Flames Metal Oxidation Oxidisation Potassium Purple Reacting Reaction Smoke
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the mesmerizing sight of potassium burning in air. Potassium, a soft and highly reactive alkali metal, is depicted here as it ignites with a brilliant flame, creating an enchanting display of chemistry in action. As it burns, potassium combines with oxygen to form either potassium dioxide or potassium superoxide (KO2), resulting in the vibrant purple flames seen in the image. Despite being the seventh most abundant metal in Earth's crust, elemental potassium is not naturally found due to its high reactivity. This makes witnessing its combustion all the more intriguing. The intense reaction between this alkali metal and atmospheric oxygen showcases both the power and beauty that can arise from chemical reactions. The photograph perfectly captures every detail of this experiment: from the alight flames engulfing the piece of potassium to the smoke rising into the air. The gas jar containing this reaction adds an element of scientific precision to an otherwise visually stunning scene. Science enthusiasts will appreciate how this image highlights key concepts such as oxidation, combustion, and elemental reactions. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly ordinary elements like potassium can transform into extraordinary phenomena when exposed to specific conditions.
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