Potassium Chloride Vs. Sodium Chloride

Potassium chloride and sodium chloride are both salts. However, the two possess different characteristics and safety criteria.

Physical Characteristics

Both potassium and sodium chloride appear in a solid state of white powder-like crystals.

Common Uses

Sodium chloride is most popularly known as table salt. Although potassium chloride can be ingested in small doses, it has a bitter taste and is usually mixed with sodium chloride if eaten. In addition, potassium chloride is often used in fertilizers, and sometimes as a component of lethal injections.

Chemical Characteristics

Sodium and potassium are both classified as alkali metals located in Group 1 of the periodic table. Each of these metals are combined with chlorine, commonly in a gaseous state, to form sodium and potassium chloride salts. Potassium chloride has a solubility value of 28.1g/100g of water and sodium chloride at 36g/100g water. Both are soluble in water, alkalies, and alcohols.

Safety

Sodium chloride is generally safe because it is commonly consumed as table salt. However, potassium chloride can be harmful if too much is swallowed. Neither is a known flammable.

Where to Find

Sodium chloride is present in many foods and in ocean salt water. Potassium chloride is often found in lake brines such as those in Utah and Canada.

References

• MSDS Potassium Chloride
• MSDS Sodium Chloride
• Encyclopedia

Resources

• Catalyst Systems