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Magnesium (from the Greek word "Magnesia", meaning district of Thessaly) was first discovered by J. Black in 1755. It can be produced from electrolysis of magnesium chloride, which is derived from brines or sea water.
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Magnesium is a light, silver-white metal. An oxide film forms on its surface when in air. Magnesium burns easily with a bright white flame.
Magnesium is not found on its own in nature due to its reactivity. It can be found however in the forms of sulphates, carbonates, and silicates. It is an important element for both plants and animals.
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24Mg 23.985042 - 78.99%
25Mg 24.985837 - 10.00%
26Mg 25.982593 - 11.01%
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- Flashlight photography.
- Flares.
- Alloys for airplane construction.
- Reducing agent in the production of other metals (including uranium).
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Element
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Atomic Number: 12
Atomic Mass: 24.3050(6) gmol-1
Melting Point: 650°C
Boiling Point: 1090°C
Standard State: Solid
Density/kgm-3: 1738 (20°C), 1585 (m.p.)
Atomic Symbol: Mg
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