2006-12-06 07:10:27 · 5 answers · asked by DAVE M 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
Magnesium itself does not get heavier when burnt in air. It actually reacts with the oxygen present to form magnesium oxide.
2Mg + O2 --> 2MgO
And since oxygen has been taken in, its mass increases.
2006-12-06 13:12:48 · answer #1 · answered by Kemmy 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
One atom of magnesium becomes oxidized with two atoms of oxygen this makes the magnesium heavier.
2006-12-06 15:45:50 · answer #2 · answered by Aushbaba 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When it burns it oxidises, that means the magnesium atoms have bonded with oxygen atoms. More atoms = more weight.
Don't think it's like burning wood or coal because it isnt. It's purely an oxidisation reaction, nothing else.
Cheers.
2006-12-06 15:23:23 · answer #3 · answered by chopchubes 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
think it oxidises and the extra weight comes from the added oxygen atoms added...
2006-12-06 15:15:01 · answer #4 · answered by phedro 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
because it ends up containing oxygen as well hence when burnt it become MnO
2006-12-06 15:23:26 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋