Question

Study the set up below and answer the questions that follow.
         

1. Explain why it is important to heat the water before heating the magnesium ribbon.
2. Name gas P.  
3. Write a balanced equation for the reaction which takes place in the combustion tube.     

Answer 1

1. To generate steam so as to drive out all the air inside the apparatus
2. Hydrogen Gas
3. Mg_(s) +H₂O_(g)→MgO_(s) + H_2(g)