Applications
Potassium permanganate is widely used in the chemical industry and laboratories as a strong oxidizing agent, and also as a medication for dermatitis, for cleaning wounds, and general disinfection. It is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines.
 
Description
Potassium permanganate is an oxidising agent with disinfectant, deodorising, and astringent properties. Its chemical formula is KMnO4. It is sometimes called by its common name, Condy’s crystals. In its raw state, potassium permanganate is an odourless dark purple or almost black crystal or granular powder.
 
Preparation
Potassium permanganate is commercially prepared by mixing solution of KOH and powdered manganese oxide, with oxidizing agents like potassium chlorate. The mixture is boiled evaporated and the residue is heated in iron pans until it has acquired a pasty consistency.
 
Chemical Properties
It is an odourless, purple to magenta crystalline solid. It is soluble in water, acetone, acetic acid, methanol, and pyridine. It gets dissolved in ethanol and organic solvents. Potassium permanganate occurs in the form of monoclinic prisms, almost opaque with a blue metallic lustre.
 
Definition
Potassium permanganate is a dark purple crystalline salt, KMnO4, commonly used as a strong oxidizing agent in various chemical and industrial applications, as well as in water treatment and medical settings.