Magnesium

Chemical Structure and Properties of Magnesium

Magnesium is a chemical element with the atomic number 12 and the symbol Mg. It is an alkaline earth metal and is highly reactive.

Molecular Formula: Mg

IUPAC Name: Magnesium (note: IUPAC names are typically used for compounds, not elements, but in this case, the name "Magnesium" is widely accepted and used)

Key Structural Features:
Magnesium has an atomic structure, not a molecular structure, as it is an element. The atomic structure of magnesium consists of:

• Atomic number: 12
• Atomic mass: 24.3050 u (unified atomic mass units)
• Electron configuration: [Ne] 3s² (in its ground state)
• Outermost energy level: 3s²
• Number of valence electrons: 2

Magnesium has a face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure in its solid state.

Physical Properties:

• Appearance: Silvery-white, shiny metal
• Density: 1.738 g/cm³
• Melting point: 650°C (1202°F)
• Boiling point: 1090°C (1994°F)
• Electron negativity: 1.31 (on the Pauling scale)

Chemical Properties:
Magnesium is highly reactive, especially when it comes into contact with water or oxygen. It readily loses its two valence electrons to form a +2 ion (Mg²⁺). This makes it highly reactive with acids, bases, and other elements.

Some key chemical properties of magnesium include:

• Highly flammable: Magnesium is highly flammable and can ignite spontaneously in air at high temperatures.
• Reacts with water: Magnesium reacts with water to produce hydrogen gas and magnesium hydroxide.
• Reacts with acids: Magnesium reacts with acids to produce hydrogen gas and the corresponding magnesium salt.
• Forms compounds: Magnesium forms a wide range of compounds, including oxides, halides, and salts.

Overall, magnesium is a highly reactive and versatile element with a wide range of applications, including in the production of alloys, fireworks, and pharmaceuticals.