1: In a solution, what determines whether a mixture of Mg(OH)2 and citric acid form MgH(C6H5O7) or Mg3(C6H5O7)2? Would adding them in their respective molar ratios do it?

2: Is there a way to know if a given ionic compound will form (hard to dessicate) hydrates? I was wondering about various metal nitrates and a few other ions that might decomp before dehydration...so it would be good to know whether or not to try.

1: In a solution, what determines whether a mixture of Mg(OH)2 and citric acid form MgH(C6H5O7) or Mg3(C6H5O7)2? Would adding them in their respective molar ratios do it?
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Been a long time since I've done anythin approaching inorganic chemistry, but I would think that the slow addition of a dilute solution of citric acid to a dilute solution of Mg(OH)2 in the proper ratios should favour the monomeric structure...

dunno for sure though ;)

Been a long time since I've done anythin approaching inorganic chemistry, but I would think that the slow addition of a dilute solution of citric acid to a dilute solution of Mg(OH)2 in the proper ratios should favour the monomeric structure...

dunno for sure though ;)

I'm actually doing the experiment now. Although I have yet to think of a means to test the final product. I'm sure I'll think of something though...solubility data or some such.

I'm actually doing the experiment now. Although I have yet to think of a means to test the final product. I'm sure I'll think of something though...solubility data or some such.


Good stuff!

Been a long time since I've done anythin approaching inorganic chemistry, but I would think that the slow addition of a dilute solution of Mg(OH)2 to a dilute solution of citric acid in the proper ratios should favour the monomeric structure...


oops! That's what I meant !