What is the conversion factor for K2O to potassium (K)?

The conversion factor for converting potassium oxide (K2O) to elemental potassium (K) is based on the molecular weights of these substances. K2O consists of two potassium atoms and one oxygen atom. The molecular weight of potassium (K) is approximately 39.1 g/mol, while the molecular weight of potassium oxide (K2O) is about 94.2 g/mol (from 39.1 g/mol for potassium X 2 plus 16 g/mol for oxygen).

To find the conversion factor from K2O to K, you would calculate the proportion of the weight of potassium in one mole of K2O:

1. Calculate the total weight of potassium in K2O:

• There are two potassium atoms: 2 x 39.1 = 78.2 g.

2. The conversion factor is then the weight of potassium divided by the weight of K2O:

• 78.2 g (potassium) / 94.2 g (K2O) = 0.83.

This means that for every unit of K2O, there are 0.83 units of potassium (K). Therefore, the correct answer accurately reflects how to translate the weight of the compound