barium nitrate
Quick Summary
Barium nitrate is a colorless, crystalline, and toxic salt with the chemical formula Ba(NO3)2. It is primarily used in pyrotechnics, such as creating green lights, and in explosives. Barium itself is an alkaline-earth metal found in Group 2 of the periodic table. While metallic barium is silvery-white, it readily oxidizes in air and must be protected. Barium compounds are known for their density, stemming from the Greek word barys, meaning "heavy". All soluble barium compounds are toxic to mammals, likely due to their interference with potassium ion channels. Barium nitrate, along with barium chlorate, is used to produce a yellowish-green flame, making them useful in signal flares and fireworks.12
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