Question

Differentiate between the oxides of magnesium and sulphur.

Answer 1

Hint: Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol $Mg$ and atomic number 12. It is a shiny gray solid which bears a close physical resemblance to the other five elements in the second column (group 2, or alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table: all group 2 elements have the same electron configuration in the outer electron shell and a similar crystal structure. Magnesium is the ninth most abundant element in the universe. While, Sulfur is a chemical element with the symbol $S$ and atomic number 16. It is abundant, multivalent and nonmetallic. Under normal conditions, sulfur atoms form cyclic octatomic molecules. Elemental sulfur is a bright yellow, crystalline solid at room temperature. Sulfur is the tenth most common element by mass in the universe, and the fifth most common on Earth


Complete answer:
1) Magnesium oxide $MgO$ is basic in nature and $S{O_2}$ is acidic in nature.
2) $MgO$ is a metal oxide whereas sulphur oxide $S{O_2}$ is a non metal oxide.
3) In $MgO$ ionic bond is present and in $S{O_2}$ covalent bond is present.
4) Magnesium oxide $MgO$ is produced by the calcination of magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide. While Sulfur oxides $S{O_2}$ dissolve readily in water, and result in the atmospheric formation of sulfurous acid or sulfuric acid - a component of acid rain. The majority of sulfur oxides are produced when fuels that contain sulfur undergo combustion. As well, the roasting of metal sulfide ores is a major source.
5) $MgO$ is prized as a refractory material, a solid that is physically and chemically stable at high temperatures. While the overarching, dominant use of sulfur dioxide $S{O_2}$ is in the production of sulfuric acid
6) $MgO$ is a principal fireproofing ingredient in construction materials. While Sulfur dioxide $S{O_2}$ is sometimes used as a preservative for dried apricots, dried figs, and other dried fruits, owing to its antimicrobial properties and ability to prevent oxidation.


Note: Magnesium oxide $MgO$ is used for relief of heartburn and dyspepsia, as an antacid, magnesium supplement, and as a short-term laxative also used to improve symptoms of indigestion. While $S{O_2}$ is considered that endogenous sulfur dioxide plays a significant physiological role in regulating cardiac and blood vessel function.