Potassium perchlorate
Appearance
Potassium perchlorate is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is KClO4. It contains potassium and perchlorate ions.
Properties
[change | change source]Potassium perchlorate is a colorless crystalline solid. It dissolves in water only a little. It is an oxidizing agent. It can react with glucose to make carbon dioxide, potassium chloride, and water. It can be mixed with sulfur, while potassium chlorate cannot safely be mixed.
Preparation
[change | change source]It is made by reacting potassium chloride with sodium perchlorate. This makes the potassium perchlorate crystals.
Uses
[change | change source]It is used as a rocket propellant. It can also be used in fireworks and other explosives. Ammonium perchlorate is used more, though.