What is the formula for magnesium oxide?

Answer by  apsaras (408)

Magnesium oxide has the formula MgO. Each magnesium atom has a charge of +2 and this is balanced by each oxygen atom which has a charge of -2. Magnesium oxide can be made in a science lab by burning a magnesium ribbon. The magnesium will react with the oxygen in air to form magnesium oxide.

Answer by  papasquid (16)

Mgo. It can be formed easily by burning magnesium--the powdery residue from burning is MgO--but the flame is extremely (dangerously) bright and the fumes are also hazardous. It should only be burned under carefully controlled conditions.