Why be and Mg not chemically inactive

  • Thread starter Maroon Ray
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In summary, Mg is considered chemically inactive because it has a stable electron configuration with 2 valence electrons in its outermost energy level, making it less reactive and less likely to form chemical bonds with other elements. However, it can still form bonds with other elements, but its reactivity is lower compared to other metals. This stability is due to its full outer energy level, following the octet rule. Mg's reactivity is lower compared to other metals due to its low electronegativity and ionization energy. In its chemically inactive state, Mg is commonly used in alloys for structural purposes in the aerospace and automotive industries, as well as in the production of lightweight and durable products such as electronic devices, sports equipment, and
  • #1
Maroon Ray
2
0
Be has 4 electrons, thus the electronic
configuration is 1s2 2s2
Mg has 12 electrons, thus the electronic
configuration is 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2
Both Be and Mg have
closed subshells. Why are they not chemically
inactive (inert)?
 
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  • #2
To be chemically inert, the element needs closed shells, not subshells. Also, in recent years, compounds involving the heavier inert gases (xenon and krypton?) have been formed.
 
  • #3


While Be and Mg do have closed subshells, they are not completely chemically inactive or inert. This is because they still have outermost electrons in their valence shell that are available for bonding. In the case of Be, it has 2 valence electrons in the 2s orbital, while Mg has 2 valence electrons in the 3s orbital. These electrons can participate in chemical reactions and form bonds with other atoms to achieve a more stable electron configuration. Additionally, the electronegativity of these elements is not extremely low, meaning they can still form compounds with other elements. In summary, while Be and Mg do have closed subshells, they are not completely inactive because they still have valence electrons available for bonding and can form compounds with other elements.
 

1. Why is Mg considered chemically inactive?

Unlike other metals, Mg has a relatively stable electron configuration, with 2 valence electrons in its outermost energy level. This makes it less reactive and less likely to form chemical bonds with other elements.

2. Can Mg form chemical bonds with other elements?

Yes, Mg can form chemical bonds with other elements. However, its reactivity is lower compared to other metals, so it may not readily react with other elements under normal conditions.

3. What makes Mg's electron configuration stable?

Mg's electron configuration is stable because it has a full outermost energy level with 2 valence electrons. This configuration follows the octet rule, which states that atoms tend to gain, lose, or share electrons to achieve a full outer energy level.

4. How does Mg's reactivity compare to other metals?

Mg's reactivity is lower compared to other metals. This is because it has a relatively low electronegativity and ionization energy, making it less likely to form chemical bonds with other elements.

5. What are some common uses of Mg in its chemically inactive state?

Mg is commonly used in its chemically inactive state as a structural metal in alloys, such as aluminum-magnesium alloys, which are used in the aerospace and automotive industries. It is also used in the production of lightweight and durable products, such as electronic devices, sports equipment, and medical implants.

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