Q21E - Chemistry (OpenStax)

Question

Magnesium is an active metal; it burns in the form of powder, ribbons, and filaments to provide flashes of brilliant light. Why is it possible to use magnesium in construction?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

It is possible to use magnesium in constructions because of the presence of insoluble magnesium salts in magnesium.

Step 1:Magnesium oxychloride

Magnesium oxide (MgO), also known as magnesia, is a versatile mineral.It can be used in residential and commercial building construction when mixed with cement, and cast into thin cement panels using proper curing procedures and practices.

Step 2:Reasons for the possibility to use magnesium in construction

• It is not possible to use pure metal, but it is possible to use the compounds of magnesium(i.e., different magnesium salts), as they are insoluble in water.
• The low solubility is the consequence of the high lattice energies of a divalent metal ion.
• Despite its reactivity, magnesium can be used in construction even when in contact with a flame because a protective oxide coating forms, preventing gross oxidation.
• Only when the metal magnesium is finely subdivided or in a thin sheet, will a high-intensity flame cause it to burn quickly.