Potassium
Naturally occurring alkali metal
Potassium is a common element but occurs in nature only as ionic salt.
It is of commercial interest mainly as component in fertilizers. Na-K-alloys are used as coolant in nuclear reactors. Further applications of potassium and its compounds include those in chemical and pharmaceutical industries, in glass and ceramics production, in electrical industry, measuring techniques, pyrotechnics, food industry and engineering.
Potassium is an essential element for all living organisms. Its toxicity is low and deficiency is more relevant than toxic effects.
Potassium contents in plants depend on the respective soils, species and age and vary between different parts of the plants. In animals, potassium is regulated and body concentrations are influenced e.g. by species, age, sex and weight.
Plants are capable of accumulating potassium.
Recommended analysis examples
Search data
Specimen
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As an organism living at ground level, it is a major driver of the decomposition of organic material (e.g. plant litter).
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As an organism living at ground level, it is a major driver of the decomposition of organic material (e.g. plant litter).
Sampling area
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Important, old-industrialised conurbation in Germany.
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Main water divide between the North- and Baltic Sea
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Region in the chemical triangle of Central Germany
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Second highest and largest low mountain range in Northern Germany
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The Upper Bavarian Tertiary Uplands are a part of the Southern German Molasse Basin
Sampling period
1994 - 2021