POTASSIUM NITRATE

Potassium nitrate is a chemical compound with the formula KNO3. It is an ionic salt of potassium ions  K+ and nitrate ions NO−3. It is an alkali metal nitrate. Potassium nitrate known as saltpetre or nitre is a white solid soluble in water. It is formed by fractional crystallization of sodium nitrate and potassium chloride solutions. On heating, it decomposes and gives nitrite and oxygen. Unlike sodium nitrate it is non-deliquescent. Potassium nitrate is the most common desensitizing agent. A concentration of 5%, potassium nitrate in conjunction with sodium or monofluorophosphate fluoride and reduces symptoms within 2 weeks of daily usage.