Potassium is required for several important biochemical functions in the body, including maintaining intracellular osmotic pressure and acid-base balance. It is also involved in cardiac and skeletal muscle activities, nerve impulse transmission, and protein biosynthesis. The average adult contains around 3500 mEq of potassium, most of which is found in skeletal muscle. A daily intake of 3-4 grams is recommended, which can be obtained through foods like bananas, oranges, potatoes, beans, and liver. Both hypokalemia (low potassium) and hyperkalemia (high potassium) can cause issues like muscle weakness, cardiac problems, and changes in mental status.