Burning magnesium

Magnesium metal and its alloys are extremely hazardous . They are highly flammable in air , act violently with water. The bright light produced by burning magnesium contains ultraviolet rays , which can permanently damage the eyes if precaution is not taken. It is advised to wear goggles to avoid directly looking at with naked eye . When magnesium metal burns in air , it reacts with oxygen to form magnesium oxide which is a white powder. This is an exothermic reaction means it gives energy ( heat ) . Magnesium acts as reducing agent when treated with water. It reduces water into highly flammable hydrogen gas. The surprising fact of magnesium is that it acts in the same way with carbon dioxide as it acts with oxygen. Suppose if we place a burning magnesium near dry ice ( solid carbon dioxide ) , then it will burn brightly leaving carbon as one of the end product. Hence , both water and carbon dioxide can not be used as fire extinguishers if fire is due to magnesium related products . Chemical Reaction ----  2 Mg + O2    ---->  2 MgO + Energy  ( heat )                                  ( ash )