Chemical Properties
Granular, white powder. Hygroscopic;
decomposes at 460–470C. Soluble in water.
Uses
In 1:50,000 solution for detecting presence of living pathogenic bacteria in sera and vaccines, such organisms forming characteristic black reduction Compounds.
Uses
Potassium tellurite along with agar may be used as a component of a selective medium for growth of bacteria.
Definition
ChEBI: A potassium salt consisting of potassium and tellurite ions in a 2:1 ratio.
General Description
Potassium tellurite is a hygroscopic granular white powder. It decomposes at 460-470
oC.
Safety Profile
A poison by an
unspecified route. Human systemic effects
by ingestion: sleep dsturbance, anorexia,
nausea. When heated to decomposition it
emits toxic fumes of K2O and Te. See also
TELLURIUM compounds.
