Question

Recently I ordered some high purity MgO, which is light pink in color. However, the old powder I was using was white. MSDS also suggests that it should be white. Can anyone explain the reason of two different colors of MgO of same purity.

Thanks in advance

PS- I suspected it to be due to absorption of moisture earlier, but it is not the case. Even on heating at 800 C, does not change the color.

Answer 1

The difference in color between the white and pink MgO powders can be attributed to impurities and the presence of water molecules.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference in color between your old white MgO powder and the light pink MgO powder you recently ordered can be attributed to impurities in the samples.

Even though the purity of both powders may be the same, other substances present in the samples can affect the color.

For instance, different impurities can give rise to different colors. Additionally, the presence of water molecules in a compound can also influence its color.

In the case of copper sulfate, the blue-green color is due to water molecules attached to the compound.

Therefore, even though both samples of MgO may have the same purity level, the presence of impurities and water molecules can explain the difference in color.