What is MgO? Important knowledge about MgO.

1. Definition of MgO

Magnesium Oxide (MgO), also known as magnesia, is a solid, colorless chemical compound. It is composed of one magnesium atom and one oxygen atom. The molar mass of MgO is 40.3 g/mol. The ionic structure of MgO includes Mg₂+ and O₂- ions that have exchanged electrons to form an ionic bond.

2. Properties of MgO

2.1 Physical Properties of MgO

MgO is solid at room temperature, colorless, odorless, and has a neutral or slightly alkaline pH.

2.2 Chemical Properties of MgO

MgO is alkaline, reacts with acid to form salt and water. It can also react with water to form magnesium hydroxide.

3. Common Chemical Equations involving MgO

• Metallic reaction: MgO does not react directly with metals.
• Acid reaction: MgO + H₂SO₄ -> MgSO₄ + H₂O
• Non-metallic reaction: 2MgO + C -> 2Mg + CO₂
• Reaction with salts: MgO does not react directly with salts.

4. Synthesis of MgO

4.1 Laboratory Synthesis of MgO

A simple way to synthesize MgO is to burn Magnesium in the air.

2Mg + O₂ -> 2MgO

4.2 Industrial Synthesis of MgO

In industry, MgO is usually produced by calcination of magnesium in air at high temperatures.