Magnesium (Z=12): The Essential Element for Biology and Industry
Essential Role of Magnesium
Magnesium (symbol Mg, atomic number 12) is a vital chemical element for many biological and industrial processes. It is abundant in the Earth's crust and plays a crucial role in photosynthesis, nerve transmission, and various chemical reactions.
Contribution of Magnesium to Vital Processes
Magnesium is an essential cofactor for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the human body, including energy production, protein synthesis, and regulation of muscle and nerve function. It is also a key component of chlorophyll, necessary for plant photosynthesis.
History of Discovery
1755: First Identification by Joseph Black Magnesium was isolated by Scottish chemist Joseph Black, who identified its unique properties while studying lime and alkalis.
1808: Isolation of Magnesium by Humphry Davy Magnesium was first isolated by Humphry Davy, who used the electrolysis of magnesium oxide to extract the pure element.
Atomic Structure
Constitution: The magnesium atom has 12 protons, 12 neutrons, and 12 electrons, with an electron configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s². Isotopes:
Magnesium-24 (²⁴Mg): stable isotope, representing about 79% of natural magnesium.
Magnesium-25 (²⁵Mg): stable isotope, used in scientific research for nuclear physics applications.
Magnesium-26 (²⁶Mg): stable isotope, also used for geochemical isotopic studies.
Physical Properties
Light metal, silvery-white, shiny, and malleable.
Molar mass: ~24.305 g/mol
Melting point: 923 K (650 °C)
Boiling point: 1380 K (1107 °C)
Density: ~1.738 g/cm³
Electrical and thermal conductor.
React vigorously with hot water to produce hydrogen and magnesium hydroxide.
Chemical Reactivity
React with oxygen to form solid, white magnesium oxide (MgO), a refractory compound.
React with hot water, releasing hydrogen and forming magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂).
Form alloys with other metals, such as aluminum, used in the aeronautics industry.
Industrial and Technological Applications
Used in the production of light alloys for aeronautics and automotive industries.
Production of refractory products like furnace bricks, used in metallurgical industries.
Crucial role in chemical processes such as the production of chlorine and hydrogen through electrolysis.
Used in the manufacture of magnesia, a material used in the production of ceramics and glass.
Applications in energy storage technologies, such as magnesium batteries.
Biological and Ecological Role
Essential component in chlorophyll, enabling plant photosynthesis.
Involved in the regulation of cardiac, muscular, and nervous functions in humans.
Magnesium is a key mineral in the activation of many enzymes necessary for cellular metabolism.
Environmental and Industrial Challenges
Magnesium reserves are abundant in the Earth's crust, but managing extraction and resources remains an environmental challenge.
Magnesium alloys can be recycled, but this remains energy-intensive and costly.
Pollution from magnesium emissions during industrial production, particularly in light metals.
