Question

The formula of caustic potash is:
(A) $N{{H}_{4}}OH$
(B) $Al{{\left( OH \right)}_{3}}$
(C) $KOH$
(D) None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: Caustic potash is a strong mineral base. Its chemical name is potassium hydroxide.

Complete step by step solution:
The generic name of Caustic Potash is potassium hydroxide. It is a strong mineral alkali which should be handled with extreme precaution as it can damage our bare skin.

The formula of this compound is, therefore, option (C) $KOH$.

Additional information:
-The large-scale manufacture of this alkali is carried out through the process of electrolysis of potassium chloride brine in large electrolytic cells. The by-products are co-products of hydrogen and chlorine.
-There are many uses to this product. We are familiar with soaps and detergents which are manufactured using potassium hydroxide as one of the core raw materials.
-Potassium carbonate is the major ingredient which is used to manufacture speciality glasses that are needed in electrical appliances such as television tubes. It is also used in dyes, pigments, dehydrating agents, textile printing, fire extinguishing powders and also in many other chemical processes that produce other useful chemicals. And as you might have guessed, the production of potassium carbonate uses potassium hydroxide as one of the major ingredients.
-As you know, that potassium is an essential nutrient for plants and this must be obtained by them from outside sources. So, it’s no surprise that potassium hydroxide is used in fertilizers.

Note: One should never add water in large quantities to concentrated potassium hydroxide. To dilute this chemical, water should be slowly added while a constant stirring is maintained. Carelessness could lead to an explosion in the laboratory.