Magnesium makes hydrogen water through a chemical reaction where magnesium metal reacts with water, producing magnesium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
When metallic magnesium is placed in drinking water, it initiates a chemical process that releases hydrogen gas (H₂). This process is the basis for creating hydrogen-rich water using magnesium.
The Chemical Reaction Explained
The fundamental reaction that occurs when magnesium reacts with water is described by the following equation:
Mg + 2H₂O → Mg(OH)₂ + H₂
Let's break down what happens:
- Magnesium (Mg): This is the metallic element introduced into the water.
- Water (H₂O): This is the liquid medium.
- Reaction: When magnesium comes into contact with water, it undergoes a redox (reduction-oxidation) reaction. Magnesium is oxidized (loses electrons), and hydrogen in water is reduced (gains electrons).
- Magnesium Hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂): This is a product of the reaction. It is a white, insoluble compound that may precipitate out or remain suspended in the water.
- Hydrogen Gas (H₂): This is the desired product – molecular hydrogen, which dissolves into the water, making it "hydrogen-rich."
As stated in the reference, hydrogen-rich water is produced by placing a metallic magnesium stick into drinking water via the chemical reaction: Mg + 2H₂O → Mg(OH)₂ + H₂. This reaction leads to the dissolution of hydrogen gas in the water, achieving concentrations like 0.55–0.65 mM mentioned in the reference.
What You See When Magnesium Reacts with Water
When you put a magnesium stick or granules designed for hydrogen water into water, you will typically observe small bubbles forming and rising to the surface. These bubbles are the hydrogen gas (H₂) being produced by the reaction. The reaction rate can vary depending on the form of magnesium, the surface area exposed to water, and the water's temperature and mineral content.
Key Points About Magnesium-Based Hydrogen Water
- It relies on a straightforward chemical reaction between magnesium and water.
- The process generates molecular hydrogen (H₂) which dissolves in the water.
- Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂) is also produced as a byproduct.
- This method is a common way to create hydrogen-rich water without electrolysis devices.
