K4V2O7

K4V2O7 refers to the chemical compound potassium pyrovanadate. It is an inorganic salt with the chemical formula K4V2O7. This compound is formed from potassium cations (K+) and the pyrovanadate anion (V2O7^4-). The pyrovanadate anion is a dimeric form of the vanadate anion, consisting of two vanadium atoms linked by an oxygen atom.

Potassium pyrovanadate is typically encountered as a white or off-white crystalline solid. It is soluble in water, forming an alkaline solution due to hydrolysis of the vanadate anion. Its preparation can involve the reaction of potassium carbonate with vanadium pentoxide in a specific molar ratio, often at elevated temperatures. The compound can decompose upon strong heating, releasing oxygen and forming potassium metavanadate and potassium orthovanadate.

In terms of applications, potassium pyrovanadate has found use as a catalyst in various chemical reactions, particularly in organic synthesis. It has also been investigated for its potential in the development of electrochemical devices and as a component in some ceramic materials. Its properties are influenced by the oxidation state of vanadium, which is +5 in the pyrovanadate ion.