| A light, silvery, metallic element. It has the atomic symbol Mg, atomic number 12, and atomic weight 24.31. Its salts are essential in nutrition, being required for the activity of many enzymes, especially those concerned with oxidative phosphorylation. It is a component of both intra- and extracellular fluids and is excreted in the urine and feces. Deficiency causes irritability of the nervous system with tetany, vasodilation, convulsions, tremors, depression, and psychotic behavior. (From Dorland, 27th ed) |
