Potassium fatty acid salts
- Pronunciation
- /puh-TAS-ee-um FAT-ee ah-sid salts/
- Category
- Chemical Properties
- Singular
- Potassium fatty acid salt
- Plural
- Potassium fatty acid salts
Definition
A compound formed by the reaction of a fatty acid with potassium hydroxide, resulting in a soap-like substance used as an insecticide.
Etymology
From Latin 'potassium', referring to potassium, and 'fatty acids', from roots indicating the chemical composition.
Example
Potassium laurate is a common example of a potassium fatty acid salt used in insecticidal soaps.
Related Terms
- Soap
- Insecticide
- Fatty Acids
Usage Notes
Potassium fatty acid salts are generally considered safe for use in agriculture and have low to very low toxicity.