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

Answer

  • Magnesium ribbon is more reactive and when it is exposed to air, a layer of $MgO$ is formed on its surface.
  • $2 \mathrm{Mg}(\mathrm{s})+\mathrm{O}_2(\mathrm{~g}) \rightarrow 2 \mathrm{MgO}(\mathrm{s})$
  • This layer of MgO is removed by rubbing with sand paper before burning in air. Therefore, magnesium ribbon easily reacts with oxygen.
  • Thus, magnesium ribbon is cleaned before burning in air.

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