Mammoth Memory

The reaction between magnesium and water

It is possible to create a weak reaction between very clean magnesium ribbon and cold water. However, it is likely to only result in a few bubbles of hydrogen gas as the magnesium hydroxide produced is insoluble and forms a barrier on the surface of the magnesium. This barrier prevents further reaction.

Magnesium reacts with water but not violently with only a few bubbles of hydrogen rising

 

Magnesium + water Magnesium hydroxide + Hydrogen
Mg + 2H2O Mg(OH)2 + H2

 

More Info