in producing h2 gas why magnesium is used
Magnesium is commonly used in the production of hydrogen gas (H2) because of its high reactivity and ability to easily liberate hydrogen from water or acids. When magnesium reacts with an acid or water, it undergoes a redox reaction, where magnesium atoms lose electrons and are oxidized, ultimately producing hydrogen gas.
The reaction can be represented by the following chemical equation:
Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
In this reaction, magnesium (Mg) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form magnesium chloride (MgCl2) and hydrogen gas (H2). The hydrogen gas is then collected and used for various applications.
Magnesium is chosen for this reaction because it is relatively inexpensive, readily available, and has a high hydrogen yield. Additionally, magnesium has a high reactivity due to its low ionization energy and ability to readily release electrons, making it efficient for hydrogen gas production.
Magnesium is used in producing H2 gas because of its high reactivity with acids, particularly hydrochloric acid (HCl). Here is a step-by-step explanation of the process:
1. Reacting magnesium with hydrochloric acid:
- When magnesium (Mg) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), a single displacement reaction occurs.
- The chemical equation is: Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
- In this reaction, magnesium displaces hydrogen from hydrochloric acid, resulting in the production of magnesium chloride (MgCl2) and hydrogen gas (H2).
2. Generation of hydrogen gas:
- The hydrogen gas (H2) is produced as a product of the reaction.
- It is released as a gas and can be collected in a gas collection apparatus.
- The magnesium chloride (MgCl2) remains in the solution.
3. Source of hydrogen:
- Magnesium is commonly used as a solid source of hydrogen in the laboratory because it reacts vigorously with hydrochloric acid.
- This reaction is relatively easy to carry out and provides a convenient method for generating hydrogen gas.
In summary, magnesium is used in producing H2 gas due to its ability to displace hydrogen from hydrochloric acid, resulting in the generation of hydrogen gas.