Tuesday, February 12, 2013

What substances can react with magnesium?

Magnesium is a somewhat reactive metal in the alkaline earth family. It forms forms a 2+ ion. It reacts with non-metals such as hydrogen, nitrogen and halogens to form ionic compounds. It also reacts with acids and water. Here are some examples of reactions of magnesium:


Magnesium burns brightly in the presence of oxygen to produce MgO:


`2Mg + O_2 -> 2MgO`


This reaction produces the bright sparks seen in fireworks.


Magnesium reacts with hydrochloric acid to produce hydrogen gas:


`Mg + 2HCl -> H_2_(g) + MgCl_2_(aq)`


Magnesium reacts with water to produce magnesium hydroxide and hydrogen:


`Mg +2H_2O -> Mg(OH)_2 + H_2`


Magnesium reacts with halogens such as chlorine to produce salts:


`Mg + Cl_2 -> MgCl_2`


Magnesium is also used in alloys with other metals to provide lightweight strength and corrosion resistance.

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