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💏intro to chemistry review

MgCO3

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

MgCO3, also known as magnesium carbonate, is a chemical compound consisting of one magnesium atom bonded to one carbonate group. It is an important mineral that is closely related to the topics of the occurrence and preparation of representative metals, as well as the occurrence, preparation, and properties of carbonates.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. MgCO3 is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in deposits of magnesite and dolomite.
  2. MgCO3 can be prepared by the reaction of magnesium oxide (MgO) with carbon dioxide (CO2) under high temperature and pressure conditions.
  3. MgCO3 is used in the production of refractory materials, as a filler in plastics and rubber, and as a dietary supplement.
  4. MgCO3 is a white, crystalline solid that is insoluble in water but soluble in acids.
  5. Thermally decomposing MgCO3 produces magnesium oxide (MgO) and carbon dioxide (CO2).

Review Questions

  • Explain the role of MgCO3 in the occurrence and preparation of representative metals.
    • MgCO3 is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in deposits of magnesite and dolomite. These deposits are important sources of magnesium, which is a representative metal. The preparation of magnesium often involves the thermal decomposition of MgCO3 to produce magnesium oxide (MgO), which can then be further processed to obtain pure magnesium metal. Therefore, MgCO3 is a crucial starting material in the occurrence and preparation of the representative metal, magnesium.
  • Describe the properties of MgCO3 that are relevant to its occurrence, preparation, and uses as a carbonate.
    • MgCO3 is a white, crystalline solid that is insoluble in water but soluble in acids. This property allows it to be prepared by the reaction of magnesium oxide (MgO) with carbon dioxide (CO2) under high temperature and pressure conditions. Additionally, the thermal decomposition of MgCO3 produces magnesium oxide (MgO) and carbon dioxide (CO2), which is an important property related to the preparation and uses of this carbonate. MgCO3 is used in the production of refractory materials, as a filler in plastics and rubber, and as a dietary supplement, all of which are related to its chemical and physical properties as a carbonate.
  • Analyze the relationship between MgCO3 and other important carbonates, such as dolomite, and how this relationship impacts the occurrence, preparation, and properties of these compounds.
    • MgCO3 is closely related to the mineral dolomite, which is a calcium magnesium carbonate with the chemical formula CaMg(CO3)2. Both MgCO3 and dolomite are found in natural deposits and are important sources of magnesium. The relationship between these two carbonates impacts their occurrence, as they are often found together in geological formations. Additionally, the preparation of MgCO3 can involve the processing of dolomite, which contains both magnesium and calcium. The properties of MgCO3 and dolomite, such as their solubility and thermal decomposition, are also interconnected, as they share the common carbonate functional group. Understanding the relationship between MgCO3 and other important carbonates is crucial for comprehending the broader context of their occurrence, preparation, and properties.