Magnesia vs. Magnesium — What's the Difference?

Magnesium oxide compound.

A silver-white metallic element.

Neutralizing agent in antacids.

Common in the Earth's crust.

Common ingredient in laxatives.

Essential mineral for human health.

A white solid used in medicine.

Used in alloys and fireworks.

Refractory material in furnaces.

Element with the symbol Mg.

See magnesium oxide.

Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a shiny gray solid which bears a close physical resemblance to the other five elements in the second column (group 2, or alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table: all group 2 elements have the same electron configuration in the outer electron shell and a similar crystal structure.

(mineral) magnesium oxide

A light, silvery-white, moderately hard metallic element that in ribbon or powder form burns with a brilliant white flame. Obtained chiefly from magnesite, dolomite, and bodies of salt water, it is used in structural alloys, pyrotechnics, flash photography, and incendiary bombs. Atomic number 12; atomic weight 24.305; melting point 650°C; boiling point 1,090°C; specific gravity 1.738 (at 20°C); valence 2. See Periodic Table.

A light earthy white substance, consisting of magnesium oxide (MgO), and obtained by heating magnesium hydrate or carbonate, or by burning magnesium. It has a slightly alkaline reaction, and is used in medicine as a mild antacid laxative. See Magnesium.

The chemical element (symbol Mg) with an atomic number of 12. It is a light, easily flammable, silvery-white alkaline earth metal.

A white solid mineral that occurs naturally as periclase; a source of magnesium

A light silver-white metallic element of atomic number 12, malleable and ductile, quite permanent in dry air but tarnishing in moist air. It burns, forming (the oxide) magnesia, with the production of a blinding light (the so-called magnesium light) which is used in signaling, in pyrotechny, or in photography where a strong actinic illuminant is required. Its compounds occur abundantly, as in dolomite, talc, meerschaum, etc. Symbol Mg. Atomic weight, 24.305. Specific gravity, 1.75.

A light silver-white ductile bivalent metallic element; in pure form it burns with brilliant white flame; occurs naturally only in combination (as in magnesite and dolomite and carnallite and spinel and olivine)

No, magnesia is magnesium oxide while magnesium is a metallic element.

Magnesia can neutralize stomach acid, making it effective as an antacid.

Magnesium is crucial for many body functions, including muscle and nerve function and energy production.

No, magnesia acts as an insulator.

Yes, magnesium is the eighth most abundant element in the Earth's crust.

Typically, magnesium is consumed as a component in dietary supplements, not in its elemental form.

Magnesium is often extracted from minerals like magnesite and seawater.

Magnesia has a high melting point, making it a suitable refractory material.

Excessive magnesium can cause issues, so always consult with a healthcare provider before taking supplements.

Magnesium burns brightly and is used to create white sparks in fireworks.

Yes, magnesia can be found in certain mineral deposits.

In controlled amounts, magnesia is used in medicines but always follow medical advice.

Yes, magnesium can catch fire and burns with a white flame.

Magnesium can enhance the properties of other metals, such as aluminum, making the alloy stronger.

By volume, magnesia is generally lighter than metallic magnesium.