magnesium

Everyday

1. (science) A light, silvery-white metal and chemical element (symbol Mg, number 12) that burns with a very bright white flame. tree →
2. (health) A mineral our bodies need, found in green vegetables, nuts and whole grains. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, burning magnesium ribbon makes a dazzling white light and white ash (magnesium oxide); you must not look straight at it. It is used in fireworks, flares and light metal parts (alloys) for bikes and cars. In health and food lessons, magnesium helps muscles and nerves work. Phrases: «magnesium ribbon», «magnesium oxide», «rich in magnesium».

Examples

• Our teacher burned a strip of magnesium and it glowed bright white. tree →
• Do not look directly at burning magnesium. tree →
• Magnesium's symbol is Mg. tree →
• Spinach and almonds are rich in magnesium. tree →
• Fireworks use magnesium to make white sparks. tree →
• Some bike frames are made of a magnesium alloy because it is light. tree →
• When magnesium burns, it joins with oxygen to make magnesium oxide. tree →
• Sea water contains magnesium. tree →

Note

Uncountable: «some magnesium», not «a magnesium». Symbol Mg (not Ma or Mn – Mn is manganese, a different element). Spelling: mag-ne-sium. Safety: burning magnesium is very bright and hot; only teachers do this demo.