When e’er ’tis lit flash bangs ensue that fan relentless flames,
At times ’tis merged with “Al” and zinc to “fab” strong lightweight frames.
Its chalky milk calms windy pains,
While Epsom salts help “unblock drains”!
At chlorophyll’s green beating heart, each leaf its role proclaims.
THE SECOND MEMBER OF THE GROUP 2 ALKALINE EARTH METALS
If you ignite magnesium (especially in powder form), it burns vigorously and gives off a signature “camera flash” brightness. Magnesium fires are relentless and extremely difficult to extinguish. Not only does the burning metal react with atmospheric oxygen to produce magnesium oxide (MgO), but it also reacts with atmospheric nitrogen to form magnesium nitride (Mg3N2). Once ignited, magnesium will continue to burn when smothered with carbon dioxide (CO2), producing MgO and carbon (C). It will even continue to burn underwater, where it produces flammable hydrogen gas (H2).
Mg + H2O → MgO + H2
One of the only ways to extinguish a magnesium metal fire is to cover it with sand.
“Al” is short for Albert “fab” is short for fabricate
On its own, magnesium is quite strong and corrosion resistant. These properties are greatly enhanced when it’s alloyed with up to 10 percent aluminum and trace amounts of zinc. The resulting lightweight alloy is ideal for fabricating the frames of car bodies, aircraft, bicycles, and more.
Milk of magnesia consists of white magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) suspended in water. Despite its rather chalky texture, it has long been used as an effective antacid treatment for indigestion and heartburn.
Epsom salts, composed of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), can be used as a laxative to relieve constipation.
Plants use photosynthesis to convert water and atmospheric carbon dioxide into oxygen and carbohydrates. To fuel photosynthesis, plants use the green pigment chlorophyll to harness the sun’s energy. At the very center of each chlorophyll molecule is a magnesium atom.
