Magnesium
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Magnesium (Mg) is a silver coloured metal that has the atomic number 12 in the periodic table. It is an Alkaline Earth Metal and is located in Group 2 of the periodic table, it has the symbol Mg.
Magnesium is located in the Alkaline earth metals, Group 2. It is a shiny silver coloured metal but often has a dull appearance due to tarnishing by its reaction with Oxygen to form Magnesium oxide. Magnesium is commonly used in flares and fireworks due to the bright white flame produced upon its combustion. It also has common uses as an antacid in its compound of Magnesium hydroxide. Magnesium is also important in the growth of plants as its role in the central metal of chlorophyll, the site of photosynthesis. Magnesium was identified by Joseph Black in 1755 who identified it as an element but it was not until 1808 when Sir Humphrey Davy used electrolysis to separate Magnesium metal from Magnesium oxide. It is located in Group 2 as a metallic solid at room temperature it is relatively light weight and strong. It has a melting point of 650°c and a boiling point of 1091°c.
FAQ's
Sir Humphrey Davy
1808
Uses
Used in alloys to make airplanes, missiles and other uses for light metals. Has structural properties similar to aluminium. But since it is flammable at temperatures of burning gasoline, its uses are limited.
Sources
Usually obtained by electrolysis of melted magnesium chloride (MgCl2) found in sea water. Each cubic mile of seawater contains about 12 billion pounds of magnesium.
About the author
Nathan M
Nathan has a degree in BSc Biomedical Chemistry at Warwick University and a degree in PGCE Science at Wolverhampton University, UK. Nathan's subject matter ranges from general chemistry and organic chemistry. Nathan also created the curriculum on Breaking Atom in the course page.
Citation
Mg
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