Magnesium

Overview

Magnesium is the eighth-most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. It is a light, silvery-white metal that tarnishes slightly in air. It is essential to all living cells and is the central atom in chlorophyll.

Applications

• Alloys: Used with aluminum to make light, strong alloys for aircraft and cars.
• Pyrotechnics: Burns with a brilliant white light, used in flares and fireworks.
• Health: Essential mineral for human body (bones, muscles).

History

First recognized as an element by Joseph Black in 1755. It was first isolated by Sir Humphry Davy in 1808.