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Magnesium Nitrite

Magnesium nitrite represented by the chemical formula Mg(NO2)2 or MgN2O4 that bears the IUPAC name magnesium dinitride [1] is a white powder at room temperature that is soluble in water and alcohol [3, 4]. It is a magnesium salt and an ionic compound [1]. It should be protected from moisture to prevent it from decomposing [4].

Magnesium Nitrite Identification

CAS Number 15070-34-5 [1]
PubChem CID 10197667 [1]
ChemSpider ID 8373167 [2]
UNII 05MVC8T5JN [1]

Magnesium Nitrite Formula

How to Make It

Magnesium nitrite can be prepared by reacting magnesium hydroxide with nitrous acid [3].

Mg(OH)2 + 2HNO2 = Mg(NO2)2 + 2H2O

It can also be made by a reaction between cobalt nitrite and magnesium [3].

Co(NO2)2 + Mg = Mg(NO2)2 + Co

Properties and Characteristics of Magnesium Nitrite

General Properties

Molar mass/molecular weight 116.315 g/mol [1]

Physical Properties

Color/appearance White hygroscopic crystals [3, 4]
Melting point/freezing point Unknown [2]
Boiling point Unknown [2]
Density Unknown [2]
State of matter at room temperature (normal phase) Solid [3]

Magnesium Nitrite Structure

Magnesium Nitrite Uses

  1. In research work in laboratories [6]. It is only available in small amounts commercially and is unstable limiting its use [4].

Is It Dangerous

Though it is generally non-hazardous, it may pose a health risk if ingested [4, 5].

    References

  1. Magnesium Nitrite – Pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. Magnesium Nitrite – Chemspider.com
  3. Magnesium Nitrite – Endmemo.com
  4. Magnesium Nitrite – Encyclopedia of the Alkaline Earth Compounds
  5. Nitrate in foods: harmful or healthy? – ltschem.com
  6. Magnesium Nitrite, Mg(NO2)2Magnesium.atomistry.com

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