Magnesium: Difference between revisions
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Revision as of 12:20, 8 April 2008
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Magnesium is a metallic element that belongs to alkaline earth metal group. It is a silvery-white metal and is fairly hard. Uses of magnesium include photography, fireworks, among others. It is also an essential nutrient in humans. Some magnesium compounds, such as magnesia, are used for its medical properties. Elemental magnesium was first isolated by Sir Humphrey Davy, a British chemist.
Characteristics
Magnesium is a highly reactive metal that burns hot and bright. In it's elemental state, it is soft and quite malleable. It oxidizes quickly and freely, producing a thin layer of magnesium oxide, or magnesia. Magnesium oxide can also be produced by burning the magnesium metal.