Why should a Magnesium ribbon be cleaned before it is burnt in air?



Answer:
I have actually done this. Magnesium ribbon is difficult to ignite to begin with. I have used a lighter and almost burnt my hand because I had it lit for so long. Then I used one of those torch lighters and it was a bit easier. The oxide coating on the ribbon will make it difficult to light but not that much more difficult. It is true that If you clean it with a bit of sandpaper before lighting, it will facilitate the contact of the ribbon with the flame.
it is reactive: there would be a layer of magnesium oxide coating making it difficult to light, i would think xxx
Magnesium wil oxidize to form magnesium oxidize which isn't intended to be combusted.
As magensium metal reacts with oxygen from atmosphere, it forms oxide i.e. MgO, this oxide forms a layer on magnesium ribbon. This may prevent burning of Mg ribbon.

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