potassium
UK: pəˈtæsiəm | US: pəˈtæsiəm
n. A soft, silvery-white metallic element of the alkali metal group, essential for plant and animal life (symbol: K).
The word "potassium" originates from "potash," a term for potassium carbonate extracted from wood ashes soaked in water in pots (hence "pot-ash"). The suffix "-ium" is standard for naming metallic elements (e.g., sodium, calcium). The symbol "K" derives from Latin "kalium," reflecting its earlier association with alkali (from Arabic "al-qaly," meaning "ashes"). The word’s evolution ties to its discovery in 1807 by Humphry Davy, who isolated it via electrolysis.
Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
Potassium reacts violently when exposed to water.
Farmers often add potassium fertilizers to improve soil quality.
Low potassium levels can cause muscle cramps and fatigue.
The periodic table lists potassium with the atomic number 19.