Question
Question: Differentiate between the oxides of magnesium and sulphur....
Differentiate between the oxides of magnesium and sulphur.
Solution
Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a shiny gray solid which bears a close physical resemblance to the other five elements in the second column (group 2, or alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table: all group 2 elements have the same electron configuration in the outer electron shell and a similar crystal structure. Magnesium is the ninth most abundant element in the universe. While, Sulfur is a chemical element with the symbol S and atomic number 16. It is abundant, multivalent and nonmetallic. Under normal conditions, sulfur atoms form cyclic octatomic molecules. Elemental sulfur is a bright yellow, crystalline solid at room temperature. Sulfur is the tenth most common element by mass in the universe, and the fifth most common on Earth
Complete answer:
- Magnesium oxide MgO is basic in nature and SO2 is acidic in nature.
- MgO is a metal oxide whereas sulphur oxide SO2 is a non metal oxide.
- In MgO ionic bond is present and in SO2 covalent bond is present.
- Magnesium oxide MgO is produced by the calcination of magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide. While Sulfur oxides SO2 dissolve readily in water, and result in the atmospheric formation of sulfurous acid or sulfuric acid - a component of acid rain. The majority of sulfur oxides are produced when fuels that contain sulfur undergo combustion. As well, the roasting of metal sulfide ores is a major source.
- MgO is prized as a refractory material, a solid that is physically and chemically stable at high temperatures. While the overarching, dominant use of sulfur dioxide SO2 is in the production of sulfuric acid
- MgO is a principal fireproofing ingredient in construction materials. While Sulfur dioxide SO2 is sometimes used as a preservative for dried apricots, dried figs, and other dried fruits, owing to its antimicrobial properties and ability to prevent oxidation.
Note: Magnesium oxide MgO is used for relief of heartburn and dyspepsia, as an antacid, magnesium supplement, and as a short-term laxative also used to improve symptoms of indigestion. While SO2 is considered that endogenous sulfur dioxide plays a significant physiological role in regulating cardiac and blood vessel function.