How Is Magnesium Oxide Made?
Magnesium oxide is a naturally occurring mineral, and is also known as periclase. Periclase, which is solid and white, is a common source of magnesium. It has an extremely high melting point, and for that reason, it is used in industries that require resistance to high temperatures. Some of the products that utilize magnesium oxide for its high temperature resistance include insulation and makeup. In addition to a high level of temperature resistance, magnesium oxide has many other uses as well. It is used in medicines, to alleviate heartburn symptoms, and reduce indigestion. Librarians use magnesium oxide to keep storage areas dry, in order to preserve books. Rock climbers and pool players use magnesium oxide to keep their hands dry, due to its moisture wicking properties as well. Magnesium Oxide is created when an ionic bond exists between two basic elements of magnesium and oxygen. One atom of magnesium, Mg, and one atom of oxygen, O, combine to form magnesium oxide. The compound, m