CALCIUM, MAGNESIUM, ETC. 139 



the Stassfurt deposits. Magnesium oxid is obtained by 

 the combustion of magnesium. Magnesium also forms 

 other compounds as nitrates, phosphates, silicates, etc. 



Experiment 29. Hold a piece of magnesium ribbon about an 

 inch long in the forceps and apply a lighted match to the ribbon. 

 Examine the product. 



Questions, (i) What are some of the chemical properties of 

 the element as observed from this experiment ? (2) What product 

 was formed? Write the reaction. (3) Which would weigh more, 

 the original magnesium ribbon or the white powder obtained from 

 its combustion ? Why? (4) Why does magnesium produce such 

 an intense light ? 



