Magnesium Information

Magnesium is a shiny gray solid. Magnesium is the eighth most abundant element in the Earth's crust. Magnesium occurs naturally only in combination with other elements although pure Magnesium can be produced artificially. If purified the Magnesium will rapidly react with the atmosphere and is soon coated ina thin layer of oxide that slows reactivity. Pure Magnesium burns with a brilliant-white light. Magnesium is obtained mainly by electrolysis of magnesium salts obtained from brine.

Magnesium is used primarily as a component in aluminium-magnesium alloys, Magnesium is less dense than aluminium, but yet strong. Magnesium reacts with water at room temperature. When submerged hydrogen bubbles form slowly on the surface of the metal. Magnesium also reacts exothermically with most acids.

Only dolomite, magnesite, brucite, carnallite, talc, and olivine are of commercial importance in the production of Magnesium.

Uses of pure Magnesium are as an additive agent in conventional propellants. As a sacrificial anode to protect boats. And as underground tanks, pipelines, buried structures, and water heaters.

Magnesium has a melting temperature of 650C (1202F).