* Reaction with Silver (Ag): Silver is relatively unreactive and does not react with dilute nitric acid. However, it does react with concentrated nitric acid, forming silver nitrate (AgNO₃) and releasing nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), a reddish-brown gas.
* Reaction with Magnesium (Mg): Magnesium is more reactive than silver. It reacts readily with dilute nitric acid, releasing hydrogen gas (H₂) and forming magnesium nitrate (Mg(NO₃)₂). This reaction is quite vigorous.
Therefore, the observation of the following will distinguish the two metals:
* No reaction: Indicates the metal is silver.
* Reaction with gas evolution: Indicates the metal is magnesium.
Additional Notes:
* Other Reagents: You could also use hydrochloric acid (HCl). Magnesium will react with HCl to produce hydrogen gas, while silver will not. However, dilute nitric acid is a more common reagent used for this purpose.
* Visual Distinction: Silver is a shiny white metal, while magnesium is a grayish-white metal. However, this visual distinction might not be reliable, especially if the metals are in a mixed or impure state.
