The exact formula for hydrated magnesium nitrate is Mg(NO₃)₂•6H₂O.
Understanding Hydrated Magnesium Nitrate
Hydrated magnesium nitrate is a compound formed when magnesium nitrate combines with water molecules, integrating them into its crystal structure. The most common and stable form of this hydrate is magnesium nitrate hexahydrate, meaning it contains six molecules of water for every one molecule of magnesium nitrate. This compound is a highly soluble source of magnesium and nitrogen, widely used in various applications.
Chemical Formula Breakdown
The formula Mg(NO₃)₂•6H₂O provides specific details about its composition:
- Mg: Represents one magnesium atom, which is a divalent cation (Mg²⁺).
- (NO₃)₂: Indicates two nitrate ions (NO₃⁻). Each nitrate ion consists of one nitrogen atom bonded to three oxygen atoms.
- •6H₂O: Signifies six molecules of water of hydration associated with each formula unit of magnesium nitrate. These water molecules are part of the crystal structure but are not chemically bonded in the same way as the magnesium and nitrate ions.
Key Chemical Identifiers
To further characterize hydrated magnesium nitrate, several identifiers are used in chemistry:
| Identifier Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Linear Formula | Mg(NO₃)₂•6H₂O |
| IUPAC Name | magnesium; dinitrate; hexahydrate |
| PubChem CID | 202877 |
| SMILES | N⁺(O⁻])[O⁻].[N⁺(O⁻])[O⁻].O.O.O.O.O.O.[Mg²⁺] |
| InChI Identifier | InChI=1S/Mg.2NO3.6H2O/c;2*2-1(3)4;;;;;;/h;;;6*1H2/q+2;2*-1;;;;;; |
Magnesium nitrate hexahydrate is a crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It serves as a valuable source of magnesium in agriculture (as a fertilizer) and in various industrial processes. For more detailed information on its properties and uses, you can refer to reputable chemical suppliers such as American Elements.
