When potassium acetate (KCH₃COO) is put into water, it undergoes dissolution. This means the ionic compound breaks apart into its constituent ions:

KCH₃COO (s) → K⁺ (aq) + CH₃COO⁻ (aq)

Here's a breakdown:

* KCH₃COO (s): Solid potassium acetate

* K⁺ (aq): Potassium cation dissolved in water

* CH₃COO⁻ (aq): Acetate anion dissolved in water

The reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat and makes the water warmer. This is because the energy released when the ions form bonds with water molecules (hydration) is greater than the energy required to break the bonds in the solid potassium acetate.

Important Note: This reaction is reversible. If the solution is heated, some of the water will evaporate, and the dissolved ions will recombine to form solid potassium acetate.