Neutralisation reaction

Below is a simple word equation to show how the reaction between Magnesium and Hydrochloric acid occurs.

First of all, the particles of the reacting substance must collide with each other and, secondly, they need a certain amount of energy to break down the bonds of the particles to form new ones. Magnesium is quite reactive when exposed to acid, and burns vigorously with a bright white light in air. The acid is a typical strong, monobasic acid forming only one series of salts, the chlorides.

Before looking at all the factors that can alter the rate of the reaction, we must consider what happens when the reaction takes place. if they collide fast enough and in the right direction) a reaction will take place. If the collision between particles can produce sufficient energy (i. Magnesium is a light, shiny grey metallic element and it’s symbol in the periodic table is Mg. The reaction however can be speeded up if the number of collisions is increased.

Hydrochloric acid, HCl, is a solution of Hydrogen Chloride (a colourless gas) in water.