Question

magnesium ribbon is cleaned before burning.why
​

Answer 1

Explanation:

• Magnesium ribbon must be cleaned before burning in air so that the layer of magnesium oxide (which is formed due to reaction of magnesium with air) can be removed in order to get the desired chemical reaction.

Answer 2

• Magnesium is a very reactive metal. So, when it is stored, it reacts with oxygen in the presence of air to form a layer of magnesium oxide on its surface. This layer of magnesium oxide is quite stable and prevents further reaction of magnesium with oxygen. Therefor, magnesium ribbon is cleaned in order to remove the layer of magnesium oxide so that it can burn in air.