Magnesium hydroxide: 

Physical properties

Appearance

Magnesium hydroxide usually appears as a white, amorphous powder or a white solid.

Molecular Weight

The molecular weight of magnesium hydroxide is roughly 58.44 g/mol

Solubility

It is sparingly soluble in water, but it can dissolve better in acidic solutions approximately 0.0009 g/100 mL at 25 °C

Melting Point

Magnesium hydroxide decomposes, rather than melting when heated. It usually has a melting point around 350 °C (662 °F)

Density

The density of magnesium hydroxide is around 2.36 g/cm³.

pH

Magnesium hydroxide suspension in water is alkaline, normally in the range of pH 10.5 to 11.5.

Crystal Structure

It crystallizes within the brucite structure forming layered arrangements.

Chemical properties

Reaction with Acids

Magnesium hydroxide reacts with acids to give magnesium salts and water

Basic Character

It exhibits a basic nature and may be used as an antacid in heartburn and acidity.

Dissociation in Water

Although slightly soluble in water, it does dissolve partly to give magnesium ions and hydroxide ions

Thermal Stability

Magnesium hydroxide decomposes at its melting point and decomposes to magnesium oxide and water

Formation of Complexes

Magnesium hydroxide may also form a variety of complex ions with other anions and this may therefore affect both its solubility and reactivity.

Reaction with Carbon Dioxide

It reacts with carbon dioxide and form magnesium carbonate

Application

Antacid

Used in the treatment of heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach by neutralizing excess acid.

Water Treatment

Used to treat wastewater by precipitating heavy metals and removing contaminants and thereby purifying water.

Flame Retardant

Used as a flame retardant in plastics, textiles, and rubber because when heated, it produces water vapor. This helps cool the flammable gases, diluting them.

Food Industry

As an acidity control agent in food additive (E528) also as firming agent in certain food products

Pharmaceuticals

Formulated as excipient or providing magnesium in some medicinal drugs and dietary supplements

Cosmetics

Used as moisturizing characteristic in some cosmetic preparation and for thickening some foods

Building

Used in the manufacture of cement based on magnesium and as ingredient in building materials

Agricultural

It is used as a soil fertilizer to rectify magnesium deficiencies in plants.

Conclusion

Magnesium hydroxide stands as one among the most versatile compounds in the chemical substance, widely applied in pharmaceutical and water treatment and construction applications because it acts as antacid and flame retardant and amendments of soil. This makes it a very important material in commercial and industrial purposes also, because of growing demand because of increased awareness of its beneficial properties.

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