Question

Write the name of the compound represented by the following formulae. $KN{O_3}$

Answer 1

$KN{O_3}$ is called potassium nitrate. It is a crystallization salt and it is called a strong oxidizer. Its special means is in the making of gunpowder and is used in places. It appears from white to gray crystalline solid and is water-soluble. It is also called saltpeter or niter its production is done by fractional crystallization of sodium nitrate and potassium chloride solution.

Complete step-by-step answer: The niter can be found in rocks in India, Brazil and South Africa. Unlike sodium nitrate, it is non-deliquescent. It is also used in labs to prepare nitric acid. It is highly flammable thus if large quantities are involved in fire then explosion may occur. When it is under prolonged heat or fire, it is more likely to explode. In this fire, there will be toxic oxides of nitrogen produced.
Potassium nitrate is the most common desensitizing agent. At a concentration of 5%, potassium nitrate in conjunction with sodium or mono fluorophosphate fluoride significantly reduces symptoms within 2 weeks of daily use. The length of the dentinal tubule is penetrated by potassium ions and the ions block repolarization of the nerve ending.
Potassium nitrate dentifrice is very much important to avoid recurrence of symptoms, maintain a high abundance of extracellular potassium ions, and maintain the interdental nerves in a hyperpolarized state.

Note: Potassium nitrate can be prepared by neutralizing an acid. This compound releases oxygen when heated or decomposed. It is a salt and when potassium hydroxide is used in neutralisation of nitric acid, potassium nitrate is made. Neutralizing nitric acid always makes nitrate salts. Other acids make other types of salts.