Question

Explain why magnesium ribbon is cleaned before burning

Answer 1

ANSWER → Magnesium ribbon has generally a coating of basic Magnesium carbonate on its surface. It is a mixture of Magnesium hydroxide and Magnesium carbonate and is slowly deposited on the surface of the metal by the action of moist air. The coating or layer prevents the metal from burning when flame is brought in contact with the metal. The surface should be properly cleaned preferably with a sand paper before burning the ribbon in air in order to remove the layer of magnesium oxide.

Answer 2

♤ When Magnesium ribbon is exposed in the atmosphere it form a layer of magnesium oxide on its surface.

♤ This layer of magnesium oxide is stable compound to prevent further reaction of magnesium with oxygen.

♤ Hence, it should be cleaned before burning in air to remove this layer so that the metal can be exposed to air properly.