What is the equation for the formation of MgO?

Question:
What is the equation for the formation of MgO?

Solution:

Magnesium oxide (MgO) is formed when magnesium reacts with oxygen.

Step 1:
Magnesium loses 2 electrons and forms Mg²⁺ ion.

Mg → Mg²⁺ + 2e⁻

Step 2:
Oxygen gains 2 electrons and forms O²⁻ ion.

O + 2e⁻ → O²⁻

Step 3:
Mg²⁺ and O²⁻ combine to form magnesium oxide.

Mg²⁺ + O²⁻ → MgO

Balanced Chemical Equation:

2Mg + O₂ → 2MgO

Nature of Bond:
MgO contains an ionic bond because electrons are transferred
from magnesium to oxygen.

Final Answer:
Balanced equation for formation of MgO:

2Mg + O₂ → 2MgO