periodic table of elements name valence electrons

Magnesium: The Alkaline Earth Metal with Valence Electrons

The alkaline earth metal magnesium has been recognized as an element since 1755, when Joseph Black first identified it in Edinburgh, Scotland. However, it wasn't until 1808 that Sir Humphrey Davy successfully isolated the element. Today, magnesium is widely used in various industries, including aerospace, electronics, and construction.

Uses of Magnesium

Magnesium is a lightweight metal with a number of useful applications. It is often alloyed with other metals to create strong and durable materials for use in aircraft, missiles, racing bikes, and other high-performance equipment. In addition to its use in alloys, magnesium is also used in the production of flashbulbs, pigments, filters, and fireplace bricks.

Sources of Magnesium

Magnesium is typically obtained through the electrolysis of melted magnesium chloride (MgCl2), which can be found in seawater. The primary mining areas for magnesium are Austria, China, Poland, Russia, USA, India, Greece, and Canada. World production of magnesium averages around 350,000 tons per year.

Physical Properties of Magnesium

Magnesium has a number of unique physical properties that make it useful for certain applications. It reacts with hot water and burns in air when ignited. The metal also has a high vapor pressure and enthalpy of vaporization, making it useful for use in high-temperature applications.

Electrical Conductivity and Thermal Expansion

Magnesium is a poor conductor of electricity, with an electrical conductivity of 0.226 10^-6/cm Ω. It also has a relatively high coefficient of linear thermal expansion (26.1E-6/K), making it useful for use in applications where temperature changes are common.

Electron Configuration and Valence Electrons

The electron configuration of magnesium is 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2, indicating that the metal has two electrons in its outermost energy level. This means that magnesium has a valence shell with three s-orbital electrons, which can participate in chemical reactions.

Additional Facts and References

In addition to its physical properties, magnesium also has a number of important uses and sources. It is used in alloys for aerospace and other applications, and it is often obtained through the electrolysis of seawater. Magnesium also has a rich history, with records of its use dating back to ancient times.

Overall, magnesium is an important element with a wide range of applications and properties. Its unique physical and chemical characteristics make it useful for use in a variety of industries, from aerospace to construction.

Periodic table of elements name valence electrons