Potassium manganate

Potassium manganate is the inorganic compound with the formula K₂MnO₄. This green-colored salt is an intermediate in the industrial synthesis of potassium permanganate (KMnO₄), a common chemical used in laboratories and in various industrial applications. Potassium manganate is a strong oxidizing agent and is used in quantitative analysis and in medicine.

Properties

Potassium manganate is a green solid that is soluble in water, producing a green solution. It is stable in alkaline solutions but decomposes in acidic solutions to manganese dioxide (MnO₂) and oxygen (O₂). The compound is a strong oxidizing agent and can cause fires upon contact with organic materials or reducing agents.

Synthesis

Potassium manganate is typically synthesized by the oxidation of manganese dioxide (MnO₂) with potassium hydroxide (KOH) and oxygen (O₂) at high temperatures. This process also produces potassium manganate(VII) (KMnO₄), and the mixture can be separated by fractional crystallization.

Applications

Potassium manganate is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of potassium permanganate, a compound with widespread applications in organic chemistry, disinfection, and water treatment. It is also used in analytical chemistry as an oxidizing agent in various types of titrations.

Health and Safety

As a strong oxidizing agent, potassium manganate can cause fires and explosions when in contact with organic materials or reducing agents. It is also harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or comes in contact with skin. Appropriate safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment, are essential when handling this compound.

See also

• Potassium permanganate
• Manganese dioxide
• Oxidizing agent
• Analytical chemistry