The reaction between chlorine (Cl₂) and magnesium (Mg) is a classic example of a combination reaction where the two reactants combine to form a single product. The equation is:

Mg(s) + Cl₂(g) → MgCl₂(s)

Here's what the equation means:

* Mg(s): Magnesium in its solid state.

* Cl₂(g): Chlorine gas.

* MgCl₂(s): Magnesium chloride, a white solid.

Explanation:

When magnesium metal is exposed to chlorine gas, a vigorous reaction occurs, releasing heat and light. The magnesium atoms lose two electrons each to become positively charged ions (Mg²⁺), while the chlorine molecules gain one electron each to become negatively charged ions (Cl⁻). These oppositely charged ions attract each other and form an ionic compound, magnesium chloride (MgCl₂).