Write the formula for the ionic compound formed from magnesium and chlorine.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The ionic compound formed from magnesium and chlorine is magnesium chloride, with the formula MgCl₂.
Explanation:
Magnesium (Mg) is a metal from Group 2 of the periodic table, meaning it has two valence electrons. When it reacts with chlorine (Cl), a nonmetal from Group 17, it undergoes an ionic bond formation. Chlorine atoms have seven valence electrons and require one more electron to complete their octet. Thus, each chlorine atom gains one electron from magnesium.
To achieve a stable electron configuration:
- Magnesium loses its two valence electrons to two chlorine atoms.
- As a result, magnesium becomes a cation (Mg²⁺), and each chlorine atom becomes an anion (Cl⁻).
The result is a stable ionic compound, magnesium chloride (MgCl₂). The compound has a ratio of one magnesium ion to two chloride ions to balance the charges. Magnesium’s +2 charge and each chloride’s -1 charge combine in a 1:2 ratio, ensuring that the total charge of the compound is neutral.
Magnesium chloride forms a crystalline lattice structure, with the magnesium ions at the center surrounded by chloride ions, and vice versa. The ionic bond between magnesium and chlorine is strong due to the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.
Magnesium chloride is highly soluble in water and forms an electrolyte solution, conducting electricity due to the free movement of ions. It is commonly used as a de-icing agent and in various industrial processes.