Characteristic

Potassium chromate is the inorganic compound with the formula (K₂CrO₄). This yellow solid is the potassium salt of the chromate anion. It is a common laboratory chemical, whereas sodium chromate is important industrially.

Chemical formula:K₂CrO₄

Molar mass:194.189 g·mol−1

Appearance:Yellow powder

Odor:odorless

Density:2.7320 g/cm³

Melting point:968 °C (1,774 °F; 1,241 K)

Boiling point:1,000 °C (1,830 °F; 1,270 K)

Solubility in water:62.9 g/100 mL (20 °C);75.1 g/100 mL (80 °C);79.2 g/100 mL (100 °C)

Solubility:insoluble in alcohol

Magnetic susceptibility (χ):−3.9·10−6 cm³/mol

Refractive index (nD):1.74

Crystal structure:rhombic

Application

In finishing of leather, rust proofing of metals, textile mordant, as an analytical lab reagent. Potassium chromate enjoys a broad assortment of industrial purposes. In the fabric industry, manufacturers use potassium chromate to tan leather and dye clothing items and materials. In science, potassium chromate is often used as an indicator, meaning it can identify the presence, location and quantity of certain elements such as iron. Beyond these applications, potassium chromate also functions as an oxidizing agent in manufacturing and scientific experiments. Some nuclear power plants currently use substances other than potassium chromate to inhibit corrosion in closed cooling-water systems. Potassium chromate is applied as a chemical indicator of chlorine ions.