When potassium reacts with iodine, it forms potassium iodide, which is represented by the chemical formula KI. This reaction occurs because potassium, an alkali metal, readily loses one electron to form a positively charged ion (K+), while iodine, a halogen, gains an electron to become a negatively charged ion (I–). The resulting compound is, therefore, ionic in nature.
To break down the options:
- a) KI – This is the correct answer.
- b) KI2 – This is incorrect, as potassium does not form a compound with two iodine atoms in this reaction.
- c) K2I – This is also incorrect, as potassium iodide consists of one potassium ion for each iodide ion.
- d) K2I3 – This option does not represent a valid compound formed in this reaction.
In conclusion, the correct product of the reaction between potassium and iodine is potassium iodide (KI).