What is the precipitate of this reaction of magnesium?

Question

$\ce{MgSO4}$, on reaction with $\ce{NH4OH}$ and $\ce{Na2HPO4}$, forms a white crystalline precipitate. Identify the precipitate.

My approach: I guess the white crystalline precipitate is $\ce{Mg(OH)2}$, since it is white and insoluble in water.

Answer 1

With $\ce{(NH4)2HPO4}$, $\ce{Mg^2+}$ forms a white, crystalline precipitate of magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate:

$$\ce{Mg^2+ + HPO4^2- + NH4^+ + OH- + 5H2O \rightleftharpoons Mg(NH4)PO4 \cdot 6H2O\downarrow}$$

This is a very sensitive test for $\ce{Mg^2+}$; however, calcium, strontium, barium and other heavy metal ions also form precipitates of phosphates under these conditions. $\ce{Mg(NH4)PO4 \cdot 6H2O}$ can be distinguished by the form of its crystals when they are examined under a microscope. It forms rhombic crystals with prismatic shape, and is less microcrystalline than other earth alkali metal phosphates (sources: 1, 2).

Answer 2

Well, if we look at the possible compounds that can form here:

Mg(OH)₂ = Insoluble, MgHPO₄ = Soluble, (NH₄)₂SO₄ = Soluble, (NH₄)₂HPO₄ = Soluble, Na₂SO₄ = Soluble, NaOH = Soluble

So, it appears your guess is correct.