Magnesium Bicarbonate - Mg(HCO3)2

What is Magnesium Bicarbonate?

Magnesium Bicarbonate is an unstable compound of magnesium in solid state with the formula Mg(HCO3)2. It exists only in solution and is formed by the action of water containing free carbon dioxide on magnesite, dolomite, dolomitic limestone and other minerals containing magnesium carbonate. It causes temporary hardness in water and on heating it easily decomposes back to carbonate.

IUPAC name – Magnesium hydrogen carbonate

Table of Contents

Magnesium Bicarbonate Structure – Mg(HCO3)2

Magnesium Bicarbonate

Properties of Magnesium Bicarbonate – Mg(HCO3)2

Mg(HCO3)2 Magnesium Bicarbonate
pH 8.3
Molecular Weight/ Molar Mass 146.3387 g/mol
Boiling Point 333.6 °C at 760 mmHg
Chemical Formula C2H2MgO6

Physical Properties of Magnesium Bicarbonate – Mg(HCO3)2

Odour Odourless
Appearance Found only in liquid form
Monoisotopic Mass 145.97 g/mol
Charge +2
Solubility Soluble in water to 5.7 g / 100 mL at 20oC

Chemical Properties of Magnesium Bicarbonate – Mg(HCO3)2

Magnesium Bicarbonate undergoes decomposition forming magnesium carbonate, water and free carbon dioxide.

                    Mg(HCO3)2 → MgCO3 + H2O + CO2

Uses of Magnesium Bicarbonate – Mg(HCO3)2

  • Used as an antacid which decreases hyperacidity in conditions such as peptic ulcer disease, reflux esophagitis, gastritis and hiatal hernia.
  • Used to treat patients with renal insufficiency and should be given cautiously during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Magnesium bicarbonate helps to balance out the pH level in our body


Frequently Asked Questions- FAQs

Q1

What is the difference between magnesium carbonate and magnesium bicarbonate?

Ans: The chemical formula of magnesium carbonate is MgCO3 and magnesium bicarbonate is Mg(HCO3)2 . The magnesium carbonate is an inorganic salt, a white solid. Whereas magnesium bicarbonate exists in an aqueous solution.

Q2

Does magnesium bicarbonate cause hardness in water ?

Temporary hardness of water is caused by the presence of calcium bicarbonate and magnesium bicarbonate.

Q3

What are the uses of magnesium bicarbonate ?

It is used as an antacid to decrease hyperacidity in conditions such as peptic ulcer disease, reflux esophagitis, gastritis and hiatal hernia.

Q4

Is magnesium bicarbonate soluble in water ?

Magnesium bicarbonate is soluble in water. It exists only in aqueous solutions. It is prepared by the reaction of magnesium acetate and sodium bicarbonate.

Q5

Is it okay to take magnesium every day ?

Doses less than 350 mg daily are safe for most adults. But excess might cause stomach upset , nausea, vomiting , diarrhea and other side effects.

Test your Knowledge on Magnesium bicarbonate!

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