Potassium is a soft, silvery-white metal with the atomic number 19. It belongs to the alkali metal group in the periodic table. Potassium was discovered in 1807 by Sir Humphry Davy through the electrolysis of potash (potassium hydroxide). It is highly reactive, especially with water, where it produces potassium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, often igniting the hydrogen. Potassium is essential for plant growth and plays a vital role in nerve function and muscle contraction in humans. It is also used in fertilizers, soaps, and glass manufacturing.