Difference between Magnesium Atom and Magnesium Ion

Magnesium is a chemical element that belongs to the alkaline earth metals group in the periodic table. It is denoted by the symbol Mg and has an atomic number of 12. Magnesium atoms have a neutral charge, meaning they have an equal number of protons and electrons. However, magnesium can also form ions by losing or gaining electrons. Here, we will discuss the key differences between a magnesium atom and a magnesium ion.

1. Magnesium Atom
- A magnesium atom is the neutral form of magnesium.
- It consists of 12 protons, 12 neutrons, and 12 electrons.
- The protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus, while the electrons orbit around the nucleus in energy levels or shells.
- Magnesium atoms have a total of two electron shells. The first shell can hold up to 2 electrons, while the second shell can hold up to 8 electrons.
- In its ground state, a magnesium atom has its outermost shell partially filled with 2 electrons.

2. Magnesium Ion
- A magnesium ion is formed when a magnesium atom either loses or gains electrons.
- When a magnesium atom loses 2 electrons, it forms a positively charged magnesium ion, written as Mg2+.
- The loss of electrons creates a positive charge because the number of protons in the nucleus remains the same, while the number of electrons decreases.
- With the loss of 2 electrons, the outermost shell of the magnesium ion becomes completely empty, resembling the electron configuration of a previous noble gas, neon.
- The magnesium ion has a stable electron configuration, which makes it more chemically reactive than the neutral magnesium atom.
- Magnesium ions are commonly found in ionic compounds, such as magnesium oxide (MgO), where they combine with negatively charged ions to form a stable crystal lattice structure.

Summary:
In summary, the main difference between a magnesium atom and a magnesium ion lies in their charge and electron configuration. A magnesium atom is neutral and has an equal number of protons and electrons, while a magnesium ion is charged due to the loss or gain of electrons. The magnesium atom has partially filled outer electron shells, while the magnesium ion has an empty outermost shell, resembling the electron configuration of a noble gas. Magnesium ions are more chemically reactive and commonly found in ionic compounds.