flame test
)
Metals heated in the flame of a Bunsen burner burn with characteristic coloured flames. This is because when heated the electrons in the metal move around and give off light. Flame tests are useful for identifying unknown metals.
In chemistry, the use of a flame to identify metal cations present in a solid.
A nichrome or platinum wire is moistened with acid, dipped in a compound of the element, either powdered or in solution, and then held in a hot non-luminous flame. The colour produced in the flame is characteristic of metals present; for example, sodium burns with an orange-yellow flame, and potassium with a lilac one.
How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|
?Sign in  |
|---|