Magnesium

Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a shiny gray solid which bears a close physical resemblance to the other five elements in the second column of the periodic table: they all have the same electron configuration in their outer electron shell producing a similar crystal structure. Magnesium is the eighth most abundant element in the Earth's crust and the fourth most common element in the Earth, after iron, oxygen, and silicon, making up 13% of the planet's mass and a large fraction of the planet's mantle. It is the third most abundant element dissolved in seawater, after sodium and chlorine.

Properties

Magnesium is a relatively soft, silvery-white metal. It is a lightweight metal with a density (1.738 g/cm³) about two-thirds that of aluminum. It has a melting point of 650°C and a boiling point of 1091°C. Magnesium is highly reactive, especially when powdered or thinly shaved, but the solid metal is protected by a thin layer of oxide (MgO) that is very impermeable and difficult to remove.

Occurrence

Magnesium is produced from sea water, brines, and magnesium-bearing minerals which offer unlimited reserves. The most common commercial process used to extract magnesium is the electrolysis of magnesium chloride from seawater and brines. Magnesium is also obtained in smaller quantities through the silicon-thermal reduction of magnesium oxide, primarily in countries with large deposits of magnesite.

Uses

Magnesium has a wide variety of uses due to its physical and chemical properties. It is used as an alloying agent to make aluminum-magnesium alloys, sometimes called "magnalium" or "magnelium". Magnesium alloys are used in aerospace and automotive industries for their low density and high strength-to-weight ratios. Magnesium is also used in the manufacture of mobile phones, laptops, and other electronic devices because of its light weight and good electrical conductivity. It's also essential in the production of fireworks and flares due to its bright white flame when it burns.

Biological Role

Magnesium is an essential element for both plant and animal life. Chlorophyll, the molecule that allows plants to photosynthesize light, contains magnesium at its center. In humans, magnesium is a crucial cofactor for over 300 enzyme systems that regulate diverse biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation.

Health Issues

Magnesium deficiency in humans can cause health problems such as muscle cramps, seizures, and abnormal heart rhythms. On the other hand, too much magnesium from supplements can lead to adverse effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. Magnesium's role in maintaining a healthy balance in the body highlights the importance of consuming an appropriate amount of magnesium in the diet.

See Also

• Alkaline earth metal
• Electrolysis
• Chlorophyll
• Magnesium deficiency (medicine)