Permanganate is a chemical compound that contains the manganese ion in a high oxidation state, typically represented as KMnO4 when in its potassium salt form. It appears as dark purple or black crystals and is known for its strong oxidizing properties, making it useful in various applications, including water treatment and organic synthesis. In addition to its industrial uses, permanganate is also employed in laboratories for redox reactions and as a disinfectant. When dissolved in water, it produces a deep purple solution, which can be used to detect the presence of certain substances due to its distinct color change during reactions.