Characteristic

Potassium carbonate is the inorganic compound with the formula K₂CO₃. It is a white salt, which is soluble in water. It is deliquescent, often appearing as a damp or wet solid. 

Chemical formula:K₂CO₃

Molar mass:138.205 g/mol

Appearance:White, hygroscopic solid

Density:2.43 g/cm³

Melting point:891 °C (1,636 °F; 1,164 K)

Boiling point:Decomposes

Solubility in water:112 g/100 mL (20 °C);156 g/100 mL (100 °C)

Solubility:3.11 g/100 mL (25 °C) methanol;Insoluble in alcohol, acetone

Magnetic susceptibility (χ):−59.0·10−6 cm3/mol

Application

It may be used in pharmaceutical laboratories as a drying agent or as a source of potassium. It is also used in fire extinguishers, to make soap, glass and to soften water. Aqueous potassium carbonate plays an important role in carbon dioxide absorption promoted by piperazine. It is also essential for the absorption of carbon dioxide promoted by boric acid. It is also useful for the synthesis of azoles and diazines.