[lespaul]

Was wondering which was a stronger oxidizer - KClO3 or NaClO3 - both are from the same family.

My guess is that KClO3 is stronger since its lower in the periodic table than Na, any thoughts?

[Catsceo]

I would think the cation wouldn't matter, the anion is what oxidizes.

[lespaul]

Thanks Catsceo,

In that case they would be identical....

I think i read somewhere that NaClO3 is stronger....but Im quite sure why.

[Catsceo]

Thanks Catsceo,

In that case they would be identical....

I think i read somewhere that NaClO3 is stronger....but Im quite sure why.

If you are using sodium chlorate to oxidize something in solution, it might be stronger, due to the fact that it is more soluble than potassium chlorate.  But by themselves in a solid state mixture (like fireworks for example) they would probably have the same power.

That being said, take my answers with a grain of salt, as I am not an expert in the 2 compounds.

[Borek]

Na is lighter than K, so you get "more oxidizing" per weight. Also they differ in hygroscopic properties, which makes one better choice than the other.

[lespaul]

Hey Catsceo and Borek, thanks for all your input.

[ajkoer]

Today's fireworks use KClO4 for safety reasons, although the prior favorite was KClO3.

 KClO3 is clearly less soluble, and is the favorite if trying to extract it from solution.