Question

Why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in air?
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Answer 1

Why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in air? The magnesium ribbon should be cleaned before burning in the air because the layer of magnesium oxide (which is formed due to the reaction of magnesium with air ) can be removed in order to get the desired chemical reaction.

Answer 2

Explanation:

it contains a protective layer of magnesium carbonate it should be removed for reaction

if it is not removed it forms magnesium oxide which prevents further reaction