Potassium: Difference between revisions
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Potassium is the chemical element with the symbol K (from the Latin kalium) and atomic number 19. It is a silvery white alkali metal that is highly reactive. Potassium reacts violently with water, producing hydrogen.
Potassium in its cation form (K+) performs many different functions within the human body. K+ is essential for cellular function and maintaining homeostasis through action potentials.
Biochemistry
Potassium is a vital ion in cellular communication via the action potential.
Hyperkalemia occurs when there is too much potassium in the blood, and hypokalemia when there is a deficiency. Potassium levels in the body are balanced by levels of sodium.