Magnesium Hydroxide Formula

The chemical formula for magnesium hydroxide is Mg(OH)2, which indicates that each molecule of magnesium hydroxide contains one atom of magnesium (Mg) and two hydroxide ions (OH-). The magnesium ion has a 2+ charge, while each hydroxide ion carries a 1- charge. Therefore, to balance the charges, two hydroxide ions are required for every magnesium ion.

Magnesium hydroxide is an inorganic compound that appears as a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It is commonly used as an antacid or as a laxative due to its ability to reduce acidity in the stomach and increase water content in the intestines.

In terms of its structure, magnesium hydroxide adopts a layered structure in which magnesium ions are surrounded by six hydroxide ions in an octahedral arrangement. These layers then stack on top of each other, with weak van der Waals forces holding them together.

Overall, understanding the chemical formula and structure of magnesium hydroxide is important for various applications in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, and industrial fields.