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magnesium(Mg)
(mag-ne´ze-әm)
a chemical element, atomic number 12, atomic weight 24.312. Its salts are essential in nutrition, being required for the activity
of many enzymes, especially those concerned with oxidative phosphorylation. It is found in the intra- and extracellular fluids and is excreted in urine and feces. The normal serum level is approximately
2 mEq/L. Magnesium deficiency causes irritability of the nervous system with tetany, vasodilation, convulsions, tremors, depression,
and psychotic behavior.
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