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Formation of Oxygen From Potassium Chlorate

Potassium chlorate, KClO3, takes the form of white crystals in its pure form and is a chemical compound comprised of chlorine, potassium and oxygen. Potassium chlorate has a salty taste and releases oxygen when heated.

Oxidizing Agent
- Potassium chlorate is a very strong oxidizing agent. When it is heated, potassium chlorate decomposes and releases oxygen in the process.
Catalyst
- Manganese dioxide acts as at catalyst when mixed in with potassium chlorate, and it enables the oxygen to be released far quicker at a lower temperature. For the best results, potassium chlorate is mixed with manganese dioxide at a ratio of 3:1 and is then heated.
Uses
- Because of its oxygen-producing ability, potassium chlorate is used to make matches, fireworks and other explosives. When taking potassium chlorate out of a bottle, be cautious because scraping the crystals can create a spark, which could result in an explosion.

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