Question

Give one way in which the formation of magnesium oxide differs from the formation of sodium chloride

Answer 1

To form Na_2O compound, 2 sodium ions are needed to neutralize the charge on oxygen ion. This will loose 2 electron to form Mg^{2+} ion. This will gain 2 electrons to form O^{2-} ion. To form MgO compound, 1 magnesium ion is needed to neutralize the charge on oxygen ion.

Answer 2

Calcining at different temperatures produces magnesium oxide of different reactivity. Sodium chloride is formed when sodium atoms interact with chlorine atoms.