[6] The direct electrolysis of KCl in aqueous solution is also used sometimes, in which elemental chlorine formed at the anode reacts with KOH in situ.

The low solubility of KClO3 in water causes the salt to conveniently isolate itself from the reaction mixture by simply precipitating out of solution.

Potassium chlorate, often in combination with silver fulminate, is used in trick noise-makers known as "crackers", "snappers", "pop-its", "caps" or "bang-snaps", a popular type of novelty firework.

Since 2005, a cartridge with potassium chlorate mixed with lactose and rosin is used for generating the white smoke signaling the election of new pope by a papal conclave.

When working with a new batch of potassium chlorate, it is advisable to take a small sample (~1 gram) and heat it strongly on an open glass plate.

Militant groups in Afghanistan also use potassium chlorate extensively as a key component in the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

When significant effort was made to reduce the availability of ammonium nitrate fertilizer in Afghanistan, IED makers started using potassium chlorate as a cheap and effective alternative.

Potassium chlorate is used to force the blossoming stage of the longan tree, causing it to produce fruit in warmer climates.

It burns vigorously in combination with virtually any combustible material, even those normally only slightly flammable (including ordinary dust and lint).

Also, mixtures of potassium chlorate with any compound with ignition promoting properties, such as antimony(III) sulfide, are very dangerous to prepare, as they are extremely shock sensitive.