Question

What is the formula of Magnesite?

$${\text{A}}{\text{. MgC}}{{\text{O}}_2} \\\ {\text{B}}{\text{. MgCO}} \\\ {\text{C}}{\text{. 3MgC}}{{\text{O}}_2} \\\ {\text{D}}{\text{. MgC}}{{\text{O}}_3} \\\$$

Answer 1

Hint: Here, we will proceed by writing down the chemical formula corresponding to magnesite. Then, we will discuss the formation of magnesite along with its various uses or applications.

Complete answer:
Magnesite is referred to as a magnesium carbonate mineral. The chemical formula corresponding to magnesite is ${\text{MgC}}{{\text{O}}_3}$.This is named for its structure by the inclusion of magnesium. Magnesite is typically formed during the metamorphism or chemical weathering through alteration of magnesium rich rocks or carbonate rocks.
Magnesite is used to obtain magnesium oxide (MgO), which for the steel industry acts as a refractory material and for the chemical industry as a raw material. We often use small quantities of magnesite as a gem and lapidary stone.
Magnesite in hand specimens can be difficult to identify because it often departs from its anticipated properties. It is always cryptocrystalline, and its cleavage can be blurred. The existence of extensive chert also decreases the apparent effervescence with hydrochloric acid.
The magnesite will dissociate into magnesium oxide and carbon dioxide when heated. Magnesium oxide has an exceptionally high melting point, making it a strong refractory material in many processes including steel making, metallurgy and ceramics. Magnesium oxide is one of the most widely used materials for producing bricks used in kilns, industrial ovens, and blast furnaces. Magnesium oxide can further be used to produce fertilizers, chemicals containing magnesium and hence can be easily refined into magnesium metal.

Therefore, option D is correct.

Note: Small production costs and a wide variety of dyed colors make magnesite an excellent material for producing vibrant, low cost costume jewellery and craft projects. The limitation in regard to using magnesite to produce jewellery is its lack of durability in contrast with other gems.