By itself, alum often refers to potassium alum, with the formula KAl (SO4)2·12H2O. Other alums are named after the monovalent ion, such as sodium alum and ammonium alum.

May 5, 2024 · Alum is a type of chemical compound that is commonly used in everyday and industrial applications. You'll find alum in everything from baking powder and toothpaste to cosmetics and …

Jul 15, 2025 · Alum is a naturally occurring mineral salt with powerful astringent, antibacterial, and deodorizing effects. It is used in oral hygiene, wound care, water purification, food preservation, and …

May 28, 2025 · Alum, also known as potassium aluminum sulfate, is a naturally occurring mineral compound used across cultures and industries in various ways. The most common type of alum …

Apr 5, 2024 · Alum is a granular powder or crystalline mass that is odorless, colorless, and transparent. It has a flavor that is both sweet and astringent. Its molecular weight is 458.28 grams per molecule. …

A little over a hundred years ago the shortened form of alum began to be used to describe a graduate or past attendee of either gender. Although many people feel that alum is informal, it is in increasing …

Jun 19, 2026 · Alums occur naturally in various minerals. Potassium alum, for example, is found in the minerals kalinite, alunite, and leucite, which can be treated with sulfuric acid to obtain crystals of the …

Apr 25, 2022 · Alum is a mineral found in nature in both pure and impure forms, derived from alumen ore. It is a colourless, clear, odourless, crystalline mass or granular powder with a sweetish …

Feb 20, 2026 · What is alum? “Alum” is a general term for a group of aluminum salts. In cosmetics and topical products, it most often refers to potassium alum (aluminum potassium sulfate).

Mar 9, 2026 · Alum is a mineral salt used in cooking primarily to keep pickled fruits and vegetables crisp, though it also plays a role in baking powder and a handful of other traditional recipes.