The symbol equation for the reaction of a metal and oxygen is:

Metal + Oxygen → Metal Oxide

Example:

* Reaction of Magnesium with Oxygen:

* 2Mg (s) + O₂ (g) → 2MgO (s)

Here's a breakdown:

* Metal: Represents any metal (e.g., magnesium, sodium, iron).

* Oxygen: O₂ (g) represents oxygen gas.

* Metal Oxide: The product of the reaction, a compound of the metal and oxygen.

Note:

* The specific metal oxide formed depends on the metal involved.

* This is a general equation representing a combustion reaction, where the metal burns in oxygen to form an oxide.

* The reaction releases heat and light, making it an exothermic reaction.