potassium iodide

American  

noun

Chemistry, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline, water-soluble powder, KI, having a bitter saline taste: used chiefly in the manufacture of photographic emulsions, as a laboratory reagent, in the preparation of Gram's solution for biological staining, and in medicine as an expectorant and to treat thyroid conditions.

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potassium iodide Scientific  

1. A white crystalline compound used in photography and medicine and as a reagent in chemical analysis. It is also added to table salt to prevent goiter and other iodide-deficiency disorders. Chemical formula: KI.

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Example Sentences

Health authorities caution that potassium iodide should only be taken in certain nuclear emergencies, and works best if it’s taken close to the time of exposure.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 13, 2022

The European Commission says it is to distribute 5.5 million potassium iodide tablets for residents living in vicinity of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.

From BBC • Aug. 30, 2022

Reflecting the growing fears, the European Union on Tuesday announced it would donate 5.5 million potassium iodide tablets to Ukraine.

From New York Times • Aug. 30, 2022

If taken at the right time at the right dose, potassium iodide will be absorbed by the thyroid gland instead of the more dangerous iodine-131, reducing the associated health risks.

From BBC • Aug. 30, 2022

But maybe his fatigue is exacerbated by the potassium iodide he's taking.

From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman