Question

A metal 'x' available in the form of ribbons burn in air with a dazzling white light, once heated to its ignition temperature. It leaves a white powder 'y' which dissolves in water. The solution so formed turns red litmus blue. Identify 'x' and 'y' and write the balanced chemical equation of the reaction.

Answer 1

Magnesium ribbon burns with dazzling white light, once treated to its ignition temperature. The white powder formed is Magnesium oxide which dissolves in water to give a basic solution which turns red litmus blue. Thus 'x' is Mg and 'y' is MgO.

2MgO+O₂ → 2MgO

MgO+H₂O → Mg(OH)₂