The ion MnO4^-, known as the permanganate ion, consists of one manganese (Mn) atom surrounded by four oxygen (O) atoms. It carries a negative charge of one, making it an anion. Permanganate is commonly found in various chemical reactions and is known for its deep purple color in solution. Permanganate is often used as an oxidizing agent in organic chemistry and in water treatment processes. It can react with a variety of substances, making it useful for tasks such as disinfecting water and determining the concentration of certain compounds in titrations.