MgO(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2O(l)
In this reaction, magnesium oxide acts as a base, while hydrochloric acid acts as an acid. The reaction between an acid and a base is known as a neutralization reaction. During the reaction, the hydrogen ions (H+) from the hydrochloric acid combine with the oxide ions (O2-) from the magnesium oxide to form water molecules. The magnesium ions (Mg2+) from the magnesium oxide combine with the chloride ions (Cl-) from the hydrochloric acid to form magnesium chloride.
The reaction between hydrochloric acid and burned magnesium is exothermic, meaning that it releases heat. The heat released during the reaction can cause the mixture to fizz and steam.