permanganic

Permanganic is an adjective used in chemistry to denote anything relating to permanganate, MnO4-, or, less commonly, to permanganic acid HMnO4. In practice the term most often refers to compounds and species containing the permanganate ion, MnO4-, in oxidation state +7. Permanganic acid is a theoretical conjugate acid of permanganate and is not isolated under ordinary conditions.

The permanganate ion is tetrahedral, MnO4-, and in aqueous solution it is a deep purple oxidizing agent. Its manganese is in the +7 oxidation state. In strongly acidic solution, permanganate is reduced to Mn2+; in neutral or mildly basic solution it is reduced to manganese dioxide, MnO2, which appears as a brown precipitate; in strongly basic solution, it can form manganate, MnO4^2-, which is green.

Applications of permanganates are wide. Potassium permanganate and related salts are widely used as oxidants in laboratory redox titrations (permanganometry), in organic synthesis, and in water treatment and disinfection. They can oxidize a range of organic substrates, including certain alkenes and alcohols, and function as practical analytical reagents for detecting reducing agents. In titration, the endpoint is typically observed as a persistent pale pink color, indicating the presence of excess MnO4^-.

Safety and handling: Permanganates are strong oxidizers and can react vigorously with reducing agents and organic matter. They can stain skin and fabrics and may be corrosive; they should be kept away from heat, acids, and readily combustibles. Proper storage and handling require avoiding contamination with incompatible substances.