Question

why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in air ?​

Answer 1

Answer:

Magnesium ribbon should be cleaned with sandpaper before burning in the air. ... To remove the Magnesium oxide layer from the ribbon which may prevent or slow down the burning of magnesium ribbon. Unwanted impurities deposited on the magnesium ribbon can be removed and only pure magnesium can be used for the reaction.

Explanation:

When magnesium ribbon is burnt in air that is combustion reaction of the magnesium metal. On burning in presence of oxygen magnesium gives white color magnesium oxide.

Answer 2

Magnesium ribbon should be cleaned with sandpaper before burning in the air to remove the Magnesium oxide layer from the ribbon which may prevent or slow down the burning of magnesium ribbon. Unwanted impurities deposited on the magnesium ribbon can be removed and only pure magnesium can be used for the reaction.