Question

Is magnesium carbonate soluble in water?

Answer 1

it is said that all the carbonates are insoluble in water and thus magnesium carbonate is also insoluble in water. It is also insoluble in alcohol. It only dissolves in acids. Magnesium carbonate is a white odorless powder. It is non-toxic to humans.

Complete answer:
Magnesium carbonate is an inorganic salt with the chemical formula $MgC{O_3}$ . It is also called Magnesite or Hydromagnesite or Barringtonite. Magnesite consists of white trigonal crystals. The anhydrous salt is practically insoluble in water, acetone, and ammonia. All forms of magnesium carbonate react with acids.
Magnesium carbonate occurs as light, white, friable masses or as a bulky white powder. It is odorless and is stable in the air.
Magnesium carbonate is sparingly soluble in water. The reason for this is that the lattice energy of magnesium carbonate is reasonably high. The larger the lattice energy, the more energy is required to split an ionic lattice apart into metal cations and nonmetal anions. Magnesium carbonate is also insoluble in alcohol. They are only soluble in mineral acids with effervescence.
Magnesium carbonate is mainly used in processing magnesium oxide by calcining. Magnesite and dolomite minerals are used to make refractory bricks. $MgC{O_3}$ is also used in fire extinguishing, flooring, cosmetics, dusting powder, fireproofing, and toothpaste.

Note:
All carbonates are insoluble except those of sodium, potassium, and ammonium. Magnesium carbonate is slightly soluble. $MgC{O_3}$ is non-toxic to humans but when inhaled or comes in contact with the eyes and skin it irritates. Magnesium carbonate is used as an antacid that neutralizes or reduces stomach acid.