In the periodic table, potassium is one of the alkali metals. All of thealkali metals have a single valence electron in the outer electron shell, which is easily removed to create an ion with a positive charge – a cation, which combines with anions to form salts.Potassium in nature occurs only in ionic salts

The family of elements to which potassium belongs is alkali metals.

Explanation:

Alkali metals are a group of chemical elements that belong to Group 1 of the periodic table. This group includes lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr). These elements are highly reactive and have similar properties due to their outermost electron configuration, which consists of only one electron in the valence shell.

Properties of alkali metals:

1. Highly reactive: Alkali metals are highly reactive because they have a single valence electron that is easily lost to form a positive ion. This reactivity increases as you move down the group.

2. Soft and low density: Alkali metals are soft metals that can be easily cut with a knife. They have low densities, which means they can float on water.

3. Low melting and boiling points: Alkali metals have relatively low melting and boiling points compared to other metals.

4. Good conductors of heat and electricity: Alkali metals are excellent conductors of heat and electricity due to the presence of a mobile electron in their outermost shell.

5. Form basic oxides: Alkali metals react with oxygen to form basic oxides, which are alkaline in nature. These oxides can react with water to form alkaline solutions.

6. Colorful flames: Alkali metals are known for producing vibrant colors in flames when they are heated. For example, potassium produces a lilac flame.

Specifically about potassium:

Potassium is a soft, silvery-white metal that is highly reactive. It is the seventh most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is essential for many biological processes. Potassium is commonly found in minerals such as sylvite (KCl) and carnallite (KCl·MgCl2·6H2O). It is used in fertilizers, glass production, and as a component in some medications.

In conclusion, the family of elements to which potassium belongs is alkali metals. These metals share similar properties and are highly reactive due to their single valence electron.