What is the main purpose of rubbing magnesium ribbon with sandpaper before burning it?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: To remove the surface layer of magnesium oxide
A thin layer of magnesium oxide forms on magnesium when it is exposed to air. This layer can prevent direct contact between magnesium and oxygen and hinder burning. Rubbing with sandpaper removes the oxide layer, exposing fresh magnesium so that it burns readily. The purpose is not to make the ribbon thinner.
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What is the correct answer to this question?
To remove the surface layer of magnesium oxide
Why is this the correct answer?
A thin layer of magnesium oxide forms on magnesium when it is exposed to air. This layer can prevent direct contact between magnesium and oxygen and hinder burning. Rubbing with sandpaper removes the oxide layer, exposing fresh magnesium so that it burns readily. The purpose is not to make the ribbon thinner.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
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