Magnesium Oxalate is a chemical compound with the molecular formula MgC2O4. Its pronunciation, as per IPA phonetic transcription, is [mæɡˈniːziəm ˈɒksəleɪt]. The word Magnesium is pronounced as [mæɡˈniːziəm], while Oxalate is pronounced as [ˈɒksəleɪt]. The spelling of Magnesium Oxalate often creates confusion due to its complex nomenclature. MgC2O4 is commonly used as a reagent in chemical reactions and is also found in the human body in small quantities.
Magnesium Oxalate is a chemical compound made up of one atom of magnesium (Mg) bonded to one molecule of oxalate (C2O4^2-). It is commonly known as the magnesium salt of oxalic acid. This compound occurs as a white, crystalline solid with a molecular formula of MgC2O4.
Magnesium oxalate is primarily used in chemical laboratories and industries for various purposes. It can be employed as a reagent, catalyst, or precursor in numerous chemical reactions. Additionally, this compound can be utilized for the extraction of heavy metals from contaminated wastewater, as it has the ability to form insoluble precipitates with these metals, facilitating their removal.
In terms of its physical properties, magnesium oxalate is relatively stable and has a melting point of around 365 °C (689 °F). It exhibits low solubility in water, meaning it dissolves only to a limited extent. This compound is also insoluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. However, it can dissolve in certain acidic solutions or when reactants with strong complexing abilities are present.
It is important to note that while magnesium oxalate has various applications, it should be handled with care. It may be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or in contact with the skin and eyes. Therefore, appropriate precautions and safety measures should be taken when working with this compound.
The word "Magnesium" originates from the Latin name "magnesia", which refers to the region of Magnesia in Thessaly, Greece. The term "Oxalate" derives from the Latin word "oxalis", meaning "sorrel". The "-ate" suffix is commonly used in chemistry to indicate the presence of oxygen in a compound. Thus, "Magnesium Oxalate" refers to a compound composed of the element magnesium and oxalate ions.