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magnesium oxide

chemical compound
Also known as: magnesia, magnesia usta

Quick Summary

Magnesium oxide (MgO) is a white, highly infusible compound. It is utilized in various applications, including refractories, cements, insulation, and fertilizers. It also finds use in rubber manufacturing and as a mild laxative and antacid in medicine.1

Magnesium itself is the lightest structural metal known, appearing silvery-white like aluminum but weighing significantly less. It is highly reactive with oxygen at high temperatures, burning with intense heat and a bright white light, which makes magnesium powders useful in pyrotechnics. Magnesium compounds have wide applications in industry, medicine, and agriculture. For instance, magnesium hydroxide, also known as milk of magnesia, is used as a laxative and gastric antacid. Magnesium sulfate, or Epsom salts, is also used as a laxative. In agriculture, dolomite is used as a fertilizer for acidic soils, and magnesium oxide is added to cattle feed.23

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