What compound is formed when magnesium reacts with oxygen?

When magnesium reacts with oxygen, it forms magnesium oxide. This reaction is a classic example of a metal reacting with a non-metal to produce an ionic compound. In this case, magnesium (Mg), which is a metal, combines with oxygen (O), a non-metal.

During the reaction, magnesium loses two electrons to form Mg²⁺ ions, while oxygen gains two electrons to become O²⁻ ions. The strong electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions results in the formation of magnesium oxide (MgO). This compound is characterized by its high melting point and the ionic bond that forms between magnesium and oxygen.

The other compounds listed, such as magnesium chloride, magnesium sulfide, and magnesium nitrate, do not result from the direct reaction of magnesium with oxygen. Magnesium chloride forms when magnesium reacts with hydrochloric acid; magnesium sulfide results from the reaction of magnesium with sulfur; and magnesium nitrate is produced when magnesium reacts with nitric acid. Each of these compounds has different constituents and does not represent the product of the magnesium and oxygen reaction.