When potassium is reacted with oxygen, which of the following compound(s) is/are formed?

Options

A. `K_(2)O`
B. `KO_(2)`
C. Both `K_(2)O and KO_(2)`
D. `K_(2)O_(2)`

Answer

To determine which compound(s) are formed when potassium reacts with oxygen, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Reactivity of Alkali Metals
Alkali metals, including potassium (K), are known to react with oxygen. The products formed depend on the specific alkali metal and the conditions of the reaction.

**Hint:** Alkali metals typically form oxides, peroxides, or superoxides when reacting with oxygen.

### Step 2: Identify the Products of Potassium and Oxygen Reaction
For potassium, it is known that it reacts with oxygen to form potassium superoxide (KO2). This is because potassium is a heavier alkali metal, and it tends to form superoxides rather than oxides or peroxides.

**Hint:** Recall that heavier alkali metals like potassium, rubidium, and cesium form superoxides.

### Step 3: Write the Chemical Equation
The reaction can be represented as:
\[ 4K + O_2 \rightarrow 2K_2O_2 \]
This indicates that potassium reacts with oxygen to form potassium superoxide.

**Hint:** Balancing the equation is important to show the conservation of mass.

### Step 4: Analyze the Oxidation States
In potassium superoxide (KO2), the oxidation state of oxygen is -1/2, which is characteristic of superoxides. This is different from oxides where oxygen has an oxidation state of -2.

**Hint:** Understanding oxidation states helps in identifying the type of compound formed.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Based on the above analysis, when potassium reacts with oxygen, the compound formed is potassium superoxide (KO2).

**Final Answer:** Potassium superoxide (KO2) is formed when potassium reacts with oxygen.