Magnesium hydroxide

Properties

General
Name	Magnesium hydroxide
Chemical formula	Mg(OH)2
Appearance	White solid
Physical
Formula weight	58.3 amu
Melting point	Decomposes at 623 K (350 °C)
Density	2.4 ×103 kg/m3
Crystal structure	?
Solubility	0.0012 g in 100g water
Thermochemistry
ΔfH0gas	-561 kJ/mol
ΔfH0solid	-925 kJ/mol
S0solid	63 J/mol·K
Safety
Ingestion	Safe in small amounts, but large amounts can be dangerous.
Inhalation	May cause irritation.
Skin	May cause irritation.
Eyes	May cause irritation.
More info	Hazardous Chemical Database
SI units were used where possible. Unless otherwise stated, standard conditions were used. Disclaimer and references

Magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)₂, otherwise known as milk of magnesia, is commonly used as an antacid or a laxative. The mineral form of magnesium hydroxide is known as brucite. Magnesium hydroxide interferes with the absorption of folic acid and iron. The diarrhea caused by magnesium hydroxide carries away much of the body's supply of potassium, and failure to take extra potassium will lead to muscle cramps.