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Why magnesium ribbon cleaned with sand paper?
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Why magnesium ribbon cleaned with sand paper?
Magnesium ribbon is rubbed with sandpaper beacause to remove the protective layer of magnesium oxide.
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Why magnesium ribbon cleaned with sand paper?
Why Magnesium Ribbon is Cleaned with Sandpaper


Magnesium ribbon is commonly used in chemistry experiments for reactions that involve the production of hydrogen gas. Before using magnesium ribbon, it is important to clean it properly to ensure that it reacts efficiently and produces accurate results. One of the most effective ways to clean magnesium ribbon is by using sandpaper.


Reasons for Cleaning Magnesium Ribbon with Sandpaper



  • Remove Oxidized Layer: Magnesium ribbon is highly reactive and tends to form an oxide layer when exposed to air. This oxide layer can hinder the reaction and prevent the magnesium from reacting completely. Sandpaper helps to remove this layer and expose the pure magnesium underneath.

  • Remove Contaminants: Magnesium ribbon can easily pick up contaminants from the environment, such as dust, dirt, and oils. These contaminants can also interfere with the reaction and affect the accuracy of the results. Sandpaper helps to remove any contaminants and ensure that the magnesium ribbon is clean and pure.

  • Increase Surface Area: Sandpaper also helps to increase the surface area of the magnesium ribbon. A larger surface area means that more magnesium atoms are exposed to the reaction, which can increase the efficiency and speed of the reaction.



How to Clean Magnesium Ribbon with Sandpaper



  • Select Appropriate Grit: Choose sandpaper with a fine grit, such as 220 or 320. This will help to remove the oxide layer and contaminants without damaging the magnesium ribbon.

  • Gently Rub the Ribbon: Hold the magnesium ribbon by the edges and gently rub it with the sandpaper. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or rub too hard, as this can damage the ribbon.

  • Clean with Solvent: After sanding, clean the magnesium ribbon with a solvent such as acetone or isopropyl alcohol. This will help to remove any remaining contaminants and ensure that the ribbon is clean and pure.

  • Store Properly: Once the magnesium ribbon is clean, store it in a dry and air-tight container to prevent it from reacting with moisture or air.



Overall, cleaning magnesium ribbon with sandpaper is an important step in ensuring accurate and efficient reactions. By removing the oxide layer, contaminants, and increasing the surface area, sandpaper helps to prepare the magnesium ribbon for use in experiments and reactions.
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Why magnesium ribbon cleaned with sand paper?
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