Potassium iodate and hydrochloric acid are unrelated compounds. Their only similarities are that they are both inorganic and very reactive. Hydrochloric acid has more in common with other corrosive inorganic acids such as sulfuric and nitric acid. Potassium iodate shares many properties with other strong oxidizers, such as potassium permanganate, which can ignite surrounding materials.
Potassium Iodate Chemistry
Potassium iodate is made by mixing iodic acid with potassium hydroxide. The product of this reaction mixture is a molecule with one potassium atom, one iodine atom and three oxygen atoms. These three oxygen atoms have incomplete valence shells, which is why they try to bind to hydrogen atoms found in surrounding substances. This water-soluble white powder reacts so strongly with other materials that it easily causes fires.
Potassium Iodate Uses
Potassium iodate is used as a lab reagent, a dough strengthener and an iodine supplement. The World Health Organization recommends potassium iodine and potassium iodate as iodine supplements in case of nuclear emergencies. Potassium iodide is preferred because the iodate salt can irritate tissue in the digestive tract. Vendors also market potassium iodate to survivalists, but this use is not approved by the FDA.
Hydrochloric Acid Chemistry
Hydrochloric acid has a molecular weight of 36.47 g/mol. The chemical formula, HCl, shows that each molecule has one hydrogen and one chlorine atom. It is generally used as a liquid, although gas forms are also available. Hydrochloric acid has a distinctive, acrid odor and clear color. Extra caution is needed when handling it to prevent chemical burns.
Hydrochloric Acid Uses
Hydrochloric acid is an indispensable reagent. In addition to using it as a solvent and a catalyst, scientists use it to make laboratory solutions more acidic. Industrial uses include making dyes, fertilizers, tin and tantalum. It is used in electroplating, chemical etching, photography and in the textile and rubber industries.
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