Where is magnesium found on earth

Magnesium compounds are used for several different purposes, such as drying agents, insulation in ovens and furnaces, stomach medicine the famous milk of magnesia and laxatives. Magnesium is critical to all species, especially plants. Chlorophyll, the pigment that is responsible for photosynthesis, has a single magnesium atom at its center. Without magnesium, chlorophyll would lose its ability to utilize sunlight.

In humans, magnesium is used for a variety of purposes, such as in the structure of bones and teeth, in cellular energy production, and in the functioning of the nervous system. It is required in the activation of certain enzymes. Die-cast magnesium is also used in power tools, video cameras, cellular phones, computer components and sporting goods.

In the iron and steel industry, magnesium is used as an external hot-metal desulfurization agent and in the production of nodular iron. Sacrificial anodes of magnesium are frequently used to protect iron and steel in underground pipes and water tanks, water heaters, and marine applications from corrosion. World magnesium metal production in was estimated to be , metric tons, excluding U.

China represented more than 85 percent of the total. Magnesite production was estimated to be 20 million metric tons excluding the United States , with China as leading producer 70 percent. In , U. Imports from China supply a substantial portion of U. Magnesium is an important element in plant, animal and human nutrition. In plants, it is the central atom in the chlorophyll molecule, and in animals, deficiencies can lead to health issues.

Magnesium oxide MgO , also known as magnesia, is the second most abundant compound in the earth's crust. Magnesium oxide is used in some antacids, in making crucibles and insulating materials, in refining some metals from their ores and in some types of cements. When combined with water H 2 O , magnesia forms magnesium hydroxide Mg OH 2 , better known as milk of magnesia, which is commonly used as an antacid and as a laxative.

He tasted the water and found that it tasted very bitter. He also noticed that it helped heal scratches and rashes on his skin. Epsom salt is still used today to treat minor skin abrasions. Magnesium carbonate is used to make some types of paints and inks and is added to table salt to prevent caking. A thin film of magnesium fluoride is applied to optical lenses to help reduce glare and reflections. Estimated Crustal Abundance : 2.