Question

Why did magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in air?

Answer 1

When stored it reacts with oxygen to form a layer of magnesium oxide on its surface. This layer of magnesium oxide being a stable compound prevents further reaction ofmagnesium with oxygen. The magnesium is cleaned before burning in air to remove this layer so that the metal can be exposed to air properly

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.