Saltpeter

Saltpeter, also known as potassium nitrate, is a crystalline mineral composed of potassium, nitrogen, and oxygen. It naturally occurs in soil, especially in areas rich in decomposing organic matter. Historically, saltpeter has been used in the production of gunpowder, as it supplies the essential oxidizer needed for combustion. Additionally, it is used in food preservation, particularly in curing meats, and as a fertilizer to supply essential nutrients to plants. Its chemical properties make it valuable in various industrial applications, but it is most famously associated with historical uses in fireworks and weaponry.