Magnesium Periodic Table

Do you know that there are 118 elements in the periodic table, and magnesium is one of the most abundant and reactive metals on earth? It is one of the most chemically active alkaline earth metals (elements of group 2 of the periodic table). It is placed in the second row at the second position in the periodic table. Magnesium has 12 electrons and protons. Additionally, it has two valence electrons (negative particles that participate in chemical reactions) in the outer shell.

Magnesium Picture

Physical Properties of Magnesium 

The physical properties of magnesium are as follows: 

• The magnesium symbol is 'Mg'. 

• Its atomic number and mass are 12 and 24.305, respectively. 

• It is a silvery-white element found in the solid state. 

• Its density is 1.738 grams per cubic centimetre, due to which it sinks in the water. 

• The melting and boiling points are 650°C and 1091°C.

• It is lightweight and strong. 

Chemical Properties of Magnesium 

The chemical properties of magnesium are determined due to its high reactivity. These magnesium properties include the following: 

• High flammability, burns with a white flare at high temperatures. 

• React with oxygen and form oxides.

• Reacts rapidly with hot water and slowly with cold water. 

• Combines with non-metals such as sulphur, phosphorus, and nitrogen to form compounds. 

• React with acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, etc. 

Uses of Magnesium

Magnesium has multiple purposes ranging from chemical tests to everyday life uses. Here are its applications in different areas. 

Magnesium

Chemical Uses

• It produces different metals through reactions. 

• Used as a catalyst to increase the reaction rate. 

• Promotes organic reactions involving reduction, oxidation, etc.

Magnesium Chemical Reactions 

Industrial Uses

• Magnesium compounds are used to produce metals, cement, and glass. Some examples of magnesium metals are steel, iron, and non-ferrous metals.

• Used in making bombs and explosives due to its high reactivity. 

• Used to make alloys for building construction. 

• Widely used for missile and aeroplane construction. 

• Helps to produce photographic plates in the printing industry. 

• It is used in flashlight photography and pyrotechnics (firework industry). 

• Helps to manufacture products such as laptops, car seats, luggage bags, power tools, and cameras. 

• Works as a purifier to remove sulphur from steel and molten iron. 

Magnesium Flare 

Biological Uses 

Magnesium is a significant element for plant and animal growth and development. 

• In plants, it helps make chlorophyll, a pigment that captures sunlight to make food. 

• It promotes photosynthesis.

• Plants can suffer from conditions such as stunted growth, cell death, and drying of leaves due to the lack of magnesium. 

• In humans, it is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions, including energy production, gene maintenance, protein formation, nervous system regulation, muscle movements, etc. 

• It helps remove blood sugar from the body and enhances exercise performance. 

• Increases muscle mass and power. 

• It regulates brain functions and swinging moods. 

• It may help decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

• It can cure diabetes. 

• Magnesium plays a critical role in keeping heart muscles healthy. 

• It decreases the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, and heart diseases. 

• It has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. 

• Increases immunity to fight against diseases. 

• Prevent migraine attacks and treat headaches.

• Promote bone health and prevent bone disorders like osteoporosis.

Magnesium Supplements

Everyday Uses 

The everyday uses of magnesium include the following: 

• It helps reduce menstrual symptoms such as abdominal cramps, back pain, fatigue, etc. 

• It decreases tiredness and increases energy. 

• It reduces the chances of fractures. 

• Treats sleep disorders and improves sleep quality. 

Summary

Magnesium is a naturally occurring element that exists in a chemical compound form due to its hyper-reactive nature. It appears in a solid state and is found in mineral decompositions. It comes with numerous benefits and applications varying from chemical to daily-life applications.