Magnesium (Mg) is a chemical element with the atomic number 12. It is the eighth most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is found in various minerals such as magnesite and dolomite. Magnesium is highly reactive and never occurs in nature in its pure form. It is primarily obtained through electrolysis of magnesium salts or thermal reduction of magnesium oxide.

Economic and Industrial Properties

• Lightweight Alloys: Magnesium is the lightest structural metal, making it ideal for use in lightweight alloys for aerospace and automotive applications.
• High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Magnesium alloys offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios, enhancing performance in various engineering applications.
• Corrosion Resistance: Magnesium exhibits good resistance to corrosion, especially when alloyed with other metals.
• Biodegradability: Magnesium and its alloys are biodegradable, making them suitable for medical implants that gradually dissolve in the body.
• Reactivity: Magnesium is a powerful reducing agent and is used in the production of other metals from their compounds, such as titanium, zirconium, and hafnium.