Question

why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before in aor?​

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.

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.