The reaction of potassium with oxygen produces potassium superoxide, KO2. This reaction is highly exothermic and can be quite dangerous, as it can release a large amount of heat and light. The reaction can also produce potassium oxide, K2O, if there is not enough oxygen present.

The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of potassium with oxygen is:

4K + O2 → 2K2O

In this reaction, four atoms of potassium react with one molecule of oxygen to produce two molecules of potassium oxide. The reaction is an example of a redox reaction, in which one substance is oxidized (loses electrons) and another substance is reduced (gains electrons). In this case, potassium is oxidized and oxygen is reduced.

The reaction of potassium with oxygen is a very important reaction in the production of potassium superoxide, which is used in a variety of applications, including as a fertilizer, an oxidizer in rocket propellants, and as a source of oxygen in submarines and space suits.