Empirical Formula of Magnesium Oxide Lab Report

Empirical Formula of Magnesium Oxide - Lab Report Example Gravimetric analysis the use of mass measurement to determine the amount of the analyte.   Magnesium is a highly reactive metal, which is why it should be solid (Erdey, et al., 2013). It is paramount to limit the amount of oxygen to reduce the rate of reaction (Zumdahl & DeCoste, 2013). The use of magnesium strips ensures the whole surface of the metal is exposed to oxygen. A gravimetric analysis demands a step by step of measurement of mass before and after the reaction. The magnesium is weighed before the reaction and the final product after the reaction is also weighed. The weighing helps in determining the exact mass of oxygen that combines with Magnesium in the reaction.   Since both Magnesium (Mg2+) and Oxygen (O2-) have a valency of 2 the reaction will go as follows.Magnesium will react with Oxygen in 1:1 ratio. The resulting product should be white (Zumdahl & DeCoste, 2013).   Also, Magnesium will react with Nitrogen to produce a black substance. It is because Magnesium is a highly reactive metal. Health and Safety Tips:†¢Ã‚  Magnesium is highly flammable, which means it can easily burst into flames. Therefore, it is imperative to keep one’s eye very far from the crucible during the experiment.   In addition, Magnesium has a blinding glare when it burns, which is very harmful to the eyes. The ignition of the Magnesium can be prevented by closing the lid. †¢Ã‚  The Bunsen burner will produce so much heat during the experiment. One should keep a considerably safe distance from the Bunsen burner.