What is potassium ferricyanide?

Potassium ferricyanide, also known as potassium hexacyanoferrate(III), is a chemical compound with the formula K3[Fe(CN)6]. It is a bright red crystalline solid that is soluble in water. It is commonly used in analytical chemistry and in organic synthesis as a mild oxidizing agent.

Potassium ferricyanide is commonly used in the Prussian blue reaction, a chemical test used to detect the presence of ferrous ions. It is also used in photography as an oxidizing agent in the cyanotype process. In addition, it is used as a stabilizer for iron salts in black and white developers.

However, it is important to note that potassium ferricyanide is toxic and can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. It should be handled with care and proper safety precautions should be taken when using this compound.