Question

Question #aee07

Answer 1

Magnesium is a group `2` element that consists of `12` protons, `12` neutrons and `12` electrons.

Explanation:

Thee distribution of the electrons in magnesium is: `1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^6, 3s^2.`
It has two electrons in the innermost shell, eight in the two orbits of the next shell, and two in the outermost shell.

This distribution can also be written as `[Ne]3s^2` where the `[Ne]` stands for the core electrons which match those in the element Neon with its `10` electrons in stable orbit shells.
This means magnesium has two valence electrons in its outer shell and is highly reactive.

Magnesium is a shiny grey element that is usually found in combination with other elements. It is the fourth most abundant element on and in earth - it is a major component of the earth's mantle. Magnesium ions are important contributors to healthy human bodies.