The boiling point of potassium acetate is 292deg Celsius. It is a deliquescent white crystalline solid that is insoluble in organic solvents, but soluble in water, alcohol and ammonia.
It is a potassium salt of acetic acid and is used as a food preservative, acidity regulator, buffer, and firming agent. It is also an approved food additive and a fire extinguishing agent.
Potassium acetate is formed when potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide are dissolved in acetic acid. This reaction is called acid-base neutralization reaction. The resulting salt and water solution is referred to as CH3CO2K (CH3COOH + KOH) or as a hygroscopic liquid at room temperature.
Chemical Formula: C2H3KO2. Molecular Weight: 2.56 mg/mL.
It is an essential macromineral needed for maintaining intracellular tonicity, nerve conduction, cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, production of energy, the synthesis of nucleic acids, and maintenance of blood pressure and normal renal function. It also has potential antihypertensive effects when taken as a nutritional supplement and is used to replenish electrolytes and for restoration of water-electrolyte balance, formerly in diuretics and expectorants.
It is also utilized in molecular biology for precipitation of dodecyl sulfate bound proteins and ethanol precipitation of DNA. It is used as a treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in a process known as electrolyte replacement protocol. It is also applied in making lubricants. It is a strong hygroscopic compound that can be incompatible with moisture, heat, flames and strong oxidizing agents. It should be stored in a dry and well-ventilated place to avoid deterioration.