NO. 012Alkaline Earth

Mg

Magnesium

Magnesium is a lightweight metal known for its bright white flame when burned. It is essential for biological systems, particularly in chlorophyll and enzymes. Magnesium is widely used in lightweight alloys, fireworks, flares, and structural applications.

Crystal Structure

Hexagonal close-packed (hcp)

Technical Specifications

Atomic Mass24.305 u

Density1.738 g/cm³

Melting Point923 K

Boiling Point1363 K

Atomic Radius160 pm

Electronegativity1.31

Ionization Energy738 kJ/mol

Electron Affinity0 kJ/mol

Bonding TypeMetallic

Oxidation States2

Acid/BaseBasic

ReactivityMedium

Electron Configuration

[Ne] 3s2

Discovered ByJoseph Black

Year1755

Known Isotopes

Magnesium-24Magnesium-25Magnesium-26