Introduction

Potassium nitrate is a chemical compound with the formula KNO3. It belongs to a large group of compounds called "Saltpeter."  It is a white, odorless solid at room temperature and has a melting point of 334 degrees Celsius. Potassium nitrate forms crystalline solids at room temperature.

     It has a range of uses, from gun powder to fertilizers.  It has uses in the medical field, being shown to treat sensitive teeth, arthritis, high blood pressure, and chest pains.  It was used in the Middle Ages to preserve meat for the winter.  Potassium nitrate is used in rocket fuel and explosives to replace the need for oxygen in the reaction.  It helps make explosions stronger and is also used to make rocket fuel burn for a greater amount of time.

     Potassium nitrate is made by reacting ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) with potassium hydroxide (KOH).  It can also form as natural crystals in dry caves and collects in bat guano.

    It has been used in gun powder and explosives for centuries.  It was created with a mixture of urine, ashes and straw.  The mixture fermented for months on end before it was exposed to the sun for excess liquid to evaporate.  The result was potassium nitrate.