Determination of the Empirical Formula of Magnesium Oxide GOAL AND OVERVIEW The quantitative stoichiometric relationships governing mass and amount will be studied using the combustion reaction of magnesium metal. Magnesium is reacted with oxygen from the air in a crucible, and the masses before and after the oxidation are measured. The resulting masses are used to calculate the experimental empirical formula of magnesium oxide, which is then compared to the theoretical empirical formula. A crucible and Bunsen burner will be used to heat magnesium metal to burning. Objectives of the Data Analysis: ? Determine the expected formula for the ionic oxide expected when Mg reacts with O2 ? Find the theoretical and actual yields of MgxOy