Environmental Impact and Health Effects of Potassium

By Libyza on March 20th, 2011

is retained ready to be readsorbed by the roots of other plants. Together with nitrogen and phosphorous, potassium is one of the essential macro minerals for plant survival.  Its presence is of great importance for soil health, plant growth and animal nutrition. Its primary function in the plant is its role in the maintenance of osmotic pressure and cell size, thereby influencing photosynthesis and energy production as well as stomatal opening and carbon dioxide supply, plant and translocation of nutrients. As such, the element is required in relatively large proportions by the growing plant. The consequences of low potassium levels are apparent in a variety of symptoms: restricted growth, reduced flowering, lower yields and lower quality produce. High water soluble levels of potassium cause damage to germinating seedlings inhibits the uptake of other minerals and reduces the quality of the crop.

 

 

 

Potassium can be found in vegetables, fruit, potatoes, meat, bread, milk and nuts. It plays an important role in the physical fluid system of humans and assists nerve functions. Potassium, as the ion K+, concentrate inside cells, and 95% of the body’s potassium is so located. When our kidneys are somehow malfunctioning an accumulation of potassium will consist. This can lead to disturbing heartbeats. Potassium can affect us when breathed in. Inhalation of dust or mists can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, lungs with sneezing, coughing and sore throat. Higher exposures may cause a build up of fluid in the lungs, this can cause death. Skin and eye contact can cause severe burns leading to permanent damage.

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