Element Magnesium

Element magnesium belongs to Group 2 of the periodic table. For this reason, it is known as an alkaline earth metal. Chemical symbol of magnesium is Mg and its atomic number is 12. Due to its high reactivity, it cannot be obtained in the form of a free element on Earth.

On the Earth's crust magnesium is found as the seventh most abundant element. Magnesium is present in as many as 60 minerals on the surface of the earth. Among them, the most commonly found ores are magnesite and dolomite. It was first prepared in laboratory by Sir Humphry Davy in 1808. He obtained the element by electrolysis of magnesia and mercuric oxide. Presently, magnesium is extracted as magnesium salt by electrolysis of sea water.

Properties of Magnesium
Magnesium is light in weight but a strong metal. It is silvery-white in color. Magnesium is a reactive element; when exposed to air, it gets discolored. That is why, it is essential to store magnesium in air-tight containers. After the extraction of the element, its surface is coated with a thin layer of oxide to prevent it from any kind of reactions. This coating is not easily permeable and helps to maintain magnesium in a pure form.

At room temperature, magnesium reacts with water to form hydrogen gas. When it reacts with acids, like hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, etc, it releases heat energy. Element magnesium is an inflammable substance. It readily catches fire when in powdered form, but it's not the case when the element is present in bulk amount. It is combustible in nitrogen as well as carbon dioxide. When it burns in air, it gives a magnificent white light.

Uses of Magnesium
Magnesium is the third most widely used structural metal, after steel and aluminum. It is largely used in the manufacture of aluminum-magnesium alloy called 'magnelium' or 'magnalium'. As it has a lesser density than aluminum, it gives the alloy both lightness and strength. This alloy is used for making beverage cans. Magnesium is used in electronic components for its good electrical and mechanical properties and light weight. It is used in manufacturing devices like cell phones, cameras, computers, etc. As it burns in air with a brilliant white flame, it is used for preparing fireworks and marine flares where bright lights are required.

Magnesium and Life
Magnesium is an important element for all living cells. In human body, almost fifty percent of total magnesium is present in bones. The remaining part is found mostly in cells of various tissues and organs. Magnesium is required for as many as 300 biochemical reactions. It makes our bones strong and helps the muscles and nerves of our body function normally. Magnesium plays a key role in controlling the functions of several types of enzymes present in our body.

Medicinal Uses of Magnesium Compounds
Compounds of magnesium are found in the form of white crystals. They dissolve in water and the solution thus obtained is sour in taste due to formation of magnesium ions. Many of these compounds have medicinal values. The most common medicinal use of magnesium compounds are as laxatives and antacids. Magnesium hydroxide is a component of milk of magnesia, which is an antacid. Magnesium sulfate, commonly known as Epsom Salts act as a laxative. Compounds like magnesium citrate and magnesium chloride are used as magnesium supplements. These supplements have various therapeutic values.

Magnesium is also useful for plant life. It is a major constituent of chlorophyll molecule, that helps in the preparation of food in plants. Magnesium compounds are used as fertilizers and added to magnesium-deficient soil.