Potassium tellurides

The monotelluride, K₂Te, was originally produced by Davy by direct combination of the elements. At 250° C. the reaction is even more energetic than that between sodium and tellurium. When prepared in an atmosphere of hydrogen, the product has a crystalline structure, and a dark iridescent-purple colour. With water it yields a purple solution, being reprecipitated by alcohol in the form of small, ill-defined crystals.

The monotelluride and the tritelluride, K₂Te₃, have been prepared by the interaction of tellurium and a solution of potassium in liquid ammonia.