Magnesium (Mg)
Magnesium (Mg, element 12) is an alkaline earth metal in group 2, period 3. Atomic mass 24.305, electron configuration [Ne] 3s², uses and facts.
About Magnesium
Magnesium is an alkaline earth metal with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a solid at room temperature, and it sits in group 2, period 3 of the periodic table. Magnesium was discovered in 1808 by Humphry Davy.
Magnesium key facts
- Atomic number: 12
- Symbol: Mg
- Atomic mass: 24.305 u
- Category: alkaline earth metal
- Group: 2
- Period: 3
- State at room temperature: solid
- Electron configuration: [Ne] 3s²
- Electronegativity (Pauling): 1.31
- Melting point: 923 K (649.85 °C)
- Boiling point: 1363 K (1089.85 °C)
- Density: 1.738 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: +1, +2
Electron configuration
The electron configuration of magnesium is [Ne] 3s². The part in brackets is the noble gas core; the rest shows how the outer electrons fill their subshells. Magnesium has 2 valence electrons.
Uses of magnesium
- Alloys
- Fireworks
- Antacids
Did you know?
Magnesium burns so brightly it keeps burning in CO₂, cannot be extinguished with regular fire extinguishers.
Other elements in group 2 and neighbours
Frequently asked questions
What is the atomic number of magnesium?
The atomic number of magnesium is 12, which means every magnesium atom has 12 protons.
What is the electron configuration of magnesium?
The electron configuration of magnesium is [Ne] 3s².
What group and period is magnesium in?
Magnesium is an alkaline earth metal in group 2, period 3.
What state is magnesium at room temperature?
Magnesium is a solid at room temperature.
What is magnesium used for?
Magnesium is used for alloys, fireworks, antacids.