potassium chlorate

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Explanation of "Potassium Chlorate"

Definition:Potassium chlorate is a chemical compound that appears as a white salt. Its chemical formula is KClO₃. It is commonly used in various applications, such as in making matches, fireworks, and explosives. Additionally, it can serve as a disinfectant and a bleaching agent.

Usage Instructions:

• As a Noun: Use "potassium chlorate" when talking about this specific chemical in contexts related to chemistry, safety, or industry.

Advanced Usage:

In more technical or scientific contexts, potassium chlorate might be discussed in relation to its properties, reactions, and safety precautions.

Word Variants:

• Potassium (K): This is the element symbol for potassium, a key ingredient in potassium chlorate.
• Chlorate: Refers to the group derived from chlorine, indicating that it contains chlorine and oxygen.

Different Meanings:

• Potassium alone refers to the chemical element, a soft, waxy, and silvery-white metal.
• Chlorate can refer to other chlorate compounds, such as sodium chlorate (NaClO₃), which is similar but has sodium instead of potassium.

Synonyms:

There are not many direct synonyms for potassium chlorate because it is a specific compound, but it might be referred to in broader terms like: - Oxidizing agent: A substance that can accept electrons from another substance. - Bleaching agent: A chemical used to lighten or whiten materials.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to potassium chlorate. However, in scientific discussions, you might hear phrases like: - "Burning up": Refers to the rapid combustion that potassium chlorate can cause when mixed with certain substances.

Safety Note:

Potassium chlorate can be dangerous if not handled properly. It is important to follow safety guidelines when using or storing it, especially since it can be used in explosives.

Academic

Noun

1. a white salt (KClO3) used in matches, fireworks, and explosives; also used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent