IPA: /ˈpɒtæʃ/
KK: /ˈpɒtæʃ/
A type of chemical compound that contains potassium, often used in fertilizers and other agricultural products.
Farmers often use potash to improve soil fertility and crop yields.
Potash originates from the Old Dutch word 'potaschen', meaning 'to leach' or 'to extract from ashes'. It refers to the ashes of plants that were leached in water to produce potassium carbonate, which was historically used in fertilizers and soap making.
Think of the process of 'leaching' ('potaschen') ashes to extract a valuable substance, which helps you remember that potash is derived from plant ashes.