why the layer on magnesium ribbon is of magnesium carbonate not of magnesium oxide?

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Solution

The layer that is formed on the surface of magnesium is that of magnesium oxide. Magnesium is an extremely reactive metal. When stored, it reacts with oxygen 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. The magnesium ribbon is therefore cleaned by sand paper for removing this layer so that the underlying metal can be exposed to air.
Mg + O₂ ------> 2MgO

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Similar questions

A magnesium ribbon is burnt in air. A student made the following observations:

i. Magnesium ribbon undergoes oxidation reaction.
ii. Magnesium reacts with air to form magnesium oxide.
iii. Magnesium ribbon undergoes decomposition reaction.

Which of the following statements is correct?

Q. Why magnesium ribbon is chosen and not magnesium rod in burning experiments?

Q. Question 3
Magnesium ribbon on burning in air produces

(a) magnesium oxide, water and light
(b) magnesium oxide and heat
(c) magnesium oxide, heat and light
(d) magnesium oxide, water and heat

Q. Assertion :Magnesium ribbon is ignited with a heated wire. Reason: Magnesium ribbon is ignited by heated wire to give magnesium oxide.

Q. Question 3
Magnesium ribbon on burning in air produces

(a) magnesium oxide, water and light
(b) magnesium oxide and heat
(c) magnesium oxide, heat and light
(d) magnesium oxide, water and heat

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