Question 1 Page 6 - Chapter 1 Class 10 - Chemical Reactions and Equations

Last updated at August 17, 2026 by

Why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in air?

 

Answer

  • Magnesium is a highly reactive element
  • When kept open in the air, it reacts with the atmospheric oxygen to form Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
  • The MgO layer does not burn or slows down the burning process and thus should be removed
  • So the Magnesium ribbon should be cleaned with a sandpaper before burning to prevent the impurities deposited on the Magnesium ribbon from interfering in the reaction
  • When cleaned, only pure Magnesium is present and burns in air with a dazzling flame
Remove Ads Take short quiz All Quiz and Worksheets
Teachoo · Class 10 Explore Class 10
Maninder Singh's photo - Co-founder, Teachoo

Made by

Maninder Singh

CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant with 16+ years of practical experience and 20+ years of teaching experience. He teaches Science, Economics, Accounting and English at Teachoo using clear explanations and exam-focused methods students can trust.

For faster and distraction-free study, students can choose Teachoo Black.