What is Magnesium? | Definition, Properties, Compounds, & Facts
Magnesium is an alkaline earth metal and is the second element in the second row of the periodic table. It is the eighth most abundant element on Earth. The magnesium atom has 12 electrons and 12 protons. There are two valence electrons in the outermost shell.
Highlights of Magnesium:
| Symbol | Mg |
| Atomic Number | 12 |
| Atomic Weight | 24.305 |
| Classification | Alkaline earth metal |
| Phase at Room Temperature | Solid |
| Density | 1.738 grams per cm cubed |
| Melting Point | 650°C, 1202°F |
| Boiling Point | 1091°C, 1994°F |
| Discovered by | Joseph Black in 1755. Isolated by Sir Humphry Davy in 1808.Characteristics and Properties |
Under standard conditions, magnesium is a light, silvery-white metal. When exposed to air, magnesium tarnishes and is protected by a thin oxide layer.
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When in contact with water, magnesium reacts and produces hydrogen gas. If it is submerged in water, you will see air bubbles begin to form.
Magnesium burns with a very bright white light. Once upon a time, magnesium powder was used to create flash for photography.
Where on Earth is Magnesium Found?
Magnesium is quite abundant on Earth in compound form and is found in more than 60 different minerals in the earth’s crust. Some of the more important minerals include dolomite, magnesite, talc, and carnallite. The compound magnesium oxide (MgO) is the second most abundant compound in the earth’s crust, accounting for about 35% of the weight of the crust.
Significant amounts of magnesium are also found dissolved in seawater. In seawater, it is in the form of the Mg2+ cation. Much of the commercial magnesium used in the United States comes from a process that uses electrolysis to extract it from seawater.
How is Magnesium used today?
One of the main uses of magnesium metal is in metal alloys. This is because it is both strong and light. It is often mixed with aluminum, zinc, manganese, silicon, and copper to create strong, lightweight alloys used in auto parts, aircraft components and rockets.
Magnesium metal is also used in electronic components. Light weight and good conductive properties make it a good item for cameras, mobile phones, laptops and other portable electronic components.
Another application of magnesium is in various compounds. Several compounds are used medicinally, such as magnesium hydroxide for indigestion (Milk of Magnesia) and magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) used in baths to soothe sore muscles. The human body needs magnesium to stay healthy. It is used to make protein, build strong bones, and regulate body temperature.
How was it discovered?
Where does Magnesium get its name from?
Isotopes
Interesting facts about magnesium
For many years, magnesium was considered the same element as calcium.
Magnesium fires are difficult to extinguish because they can burn in nitrogen, carbon dioxide and water.
It is used in flares and fireworks because of its white light when burned.
If you pour water on a magnesium fire, it will only make the fire worse.
Magnesium is sometimes used to help shorten the duration of a migraine.