How Many Electrons are in Mg²⁺?
Magnesium (Mg) is an alkaline earth metal with atomic number 12. This means a neutral magnesium atom has 12 protons and 12 electrons. However, the question asks about Mg²⁺, which is a magnesium ion. This is where things change.
Ions are formed when atoms gain or lose electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration. Magnesium readily loses two electrons to become stable, achieving the electron configuration of the noble gas neon. This loss of two negatively charged electrons leaves the magnesium ion with a 2+ charge.
Therefore, Mg²⁺ has 10 electrons. The loss of two electrons leaves only 10 remaining to balance the 12 protons.
What is the electron configuration of Mg²⁺?
The electron configuration of a neutral magnesium atom is 1s²2s²2p⁶3s². When magnesium loses two electrons, it loses them from its outermost shell (the 3s orbital). This leaves the ion with the electron configuration of 1s²2s²2p⁶, which is the same as neon (Ne).
How many protons and neutrons are in Mg²⁺?
The number of protons in an atom determines its identity as an element. Therefore, Mg²⁺ still has 12 protons. The number of neutrons varies depending on the isotope of magnesium. The most common isotope, ²⁴Mg, has 12 neutrons. Other isotopes have a different number of neutrons. The ionic charge doesn't affect the number of protons or neutrons.
What are some common uses of magnesium?
Magnesium's lightweight yet strong nature makes it useful in a wide range of applications. It's used in:
- Alloying: Magnesium alloys are used in automotive parts, aerospace components, and even sporting goods.
- Photography: Magnesium is used in flashbulbs due to its rapid combustion.
- Medicine: Magnesium plays a crucial role in many bodily functions and is used as a dietary supplement. Magnesium salts also have medical applications.
This comprehensive explanation answers the core question and expands upon related concepts, offering a richer and more valuable response than a simple numerical answer. The inclusion of FAQs, like those implicitly present in a Google "People Also Ask" section, further enhances the depth and utility of this response.
