What is the chemical symbol for potassium?

Discover the NOVA Hunting the Elements Test. Engage with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions. Prepare effectively for your assessment!

Multiple Choice

What is the chemical symbol for potassium?

Explanation:
The symbol for potassium is K because elements have one- or two-letter abbreviations, and potassium’s Latin name Kalium gives the single-letter symbol K. The first letter is capitalized, and a second lowercase letter would appear if there were two letters. This is why potassium is K, not Na, P, or Pt—the other symbols represent sodium (Na), phosphorus (P), and platinum (Pt). Potassium itself has atomic number 19 and sits in the alkali metal group.

The symbol for potassium is K because elements have one- or two-letter abbreviations, and potassium’s Latin name Kalium gives the single-letter symbol K. The first letter is capitalized, and a second lowercase letter would appear if there were two letters. This is why potassium is K, not Na, P, or Pt—the other symbols represent sodium (Na), phosphorus (P), and platinum (Pt). Potassium itself has atomic number 19 and sits in the alkali metal group.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy