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Definition of the Magnesium Element
A light, silvery-white,
moderately hard metallic element that in ribbon or powder form
burns with a brilliant white flame. It is used in structural
alloys, pyrotechnics, flash photography, and incendiary bombs.
Origin / Meaning of the name Magnesium
The name originates from a
Greek district in Thessaly called Magnesia.
Classification of the Magnesium Element
Magnesium is
classified as an "Alkaline Earth Metals" which are located in
Group 2 elements of the Periodic Table. An Element classified as
an Alkaline Earth Metals are found in the Earth’s crust, but not
in the elemental form as they are so reactive. Instead, they are
widely distributed in rock structures.
Interesting Facts about the History of the Magnesium
Element
Magnesium was discovered by
Joseph Black, in England, in 1755. The element was isolated by A.
A. B. Bussy and Sir Humphrey
Davy in 1808.
Occurrence the Magnesium Element
Does not occur uncombined with other elements
Obtained from sea water
Eighth most abundant element in the earth's crust
Found in large deposits of magnesite, dolomite, and other minerals
Associated Uses of Magnesium
Dead-burned magnesite is used as brick and liners in furnaces
and converters
Photography - old type flash powder and flash bulbs
Flares
Pyrotechnics
Incendiary bombs
Airplanes
Missiles
Magnesium chloride, citrate, sulfate, oxide , hydroxide, stearate,
taurate , sulphate and glycinate
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