Magnesium compounds

Magnesium Compounds are chemical compounds that contain the element 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 (group 2, or alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table: all group 2 elements have the same electron configuration in the outer electron shell and a similar crystal structure.

Types of Magnesium Compounds

There are several types of magnesium compounds, including Magnesium Oxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Magnesium Sulfate, and Magnesium Carbonate.

Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium Oxide (MgO), or magnesia, is a white hygroscopic solid mineral that occurs naturally as periclase and is a source of magnesium.

Magnesium Hydroxide

Magnesium Hydroxide is the inorganic compound with the chemical formula Mg(OH)2. It occurs in nature as the mineral brucite.

Magnesium Sulfate

Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO4) is an inorganic salt with the common name Epsom salt.

Magnesium Carbonate

Magnesium Carbonate, MgCO3 (archaic name magnesia alba), is an inorganic salt that is a white solid.

Uses of Magnesium Compounds

Magnesium compounds, primarily magnesium oxide (MgO), are used as a refractory material in furnace linings for producing iron, steel, nonferrous metals, glass, and cement. Magnesium oxide and other magnesium compounds are also used in the agricultural, chemical, and construction industries.

Health and Safety

Magnesium compounds are generally safe for human consumption at low levels. However, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps.

See Also

• Magnesium
• Chemical compound
• Inorganic compound