Question

What is most likely the result of this reaction: K + H2O? K + H2O K2OH K(OH)2 KOH + H2

Answer 1

The likely result of the reaction between potassium (K) and water (H2O) is the production of potassium hydroxide (KOH) and hydrogen gas (H2).

Step-by-step explanation:

The reaction between potassium (K) and water (H2O) results in the formation of potassium hydroxide (KOH) and hydrogen gas (H2). The balanced chemical equation for this exothermic reaction can be represented as:

2K (s) + 2H2O (l) → 2KOH (aq) + H2 (g)

Potassium reacts violently with water, and as an alkali metal, it forms a strong base when dissolved in water. The hydroxide ion (OH−), which is released in this reaction, contributes to the basicity of the solution, making potassium hydroxide an alkali. This reaction is a good example of the reactivity of alkali metals with water.

Answer 2

The reaction between Potassium (K) and water (H₂O) produces Potassium hydroxide (KOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂).

2K (s) + 2H₂O (l) → 2KOH (aq) + H₂ (g)

Step-by-step explanation:

When the element Potassium (K) reacts with water (H₂O), a displacement reaction occurs in which potassium hydroxide (KOH) and hydrogen gas (H₂) are produced. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

2K (s) + 2H₂O (l) → 2KOH (aq) + H₂ (g).

This type of reaction is characteristic of alkali metals reacting with water.

The result of the reaction between potassium (K) and water (H₂O) is the formation of potassium hydroxide (KOH) and the liberation of hydrogen gas (H₂).

This reaction is highly exothermic and occurs spontaneously when potassium is dropped into water. Since potassium is an alkali metal, its hydroxide, KOH, is very soluble in water and therefore, dissociates completely into potassium cations (K⁺) and hydroxide anions (OH⁻).