What is Flame Test?
Flame Test is a qualitative analysis method used in chemistry to identify the presence of certain metal ions in a compound. When a sample is heated in a Bunsen burner flame, it emits a characteristic color, allowing the identification of the metal ion present. This phenomenon is based on the principles of atomic emission spectroscopy and the excitation of electrons.
The colors observed during the flame test result from the energy released as the excited electrons return to their normal state. While the flame test is relatively quick, it is considered archaic and of questionable reliability, but it can still help identify numerous metals and metalloids.
Principle of Flame Test
Principle of flame test is based on the energy levels of electrons, where when an element is heated in a flame, its electrons absorb energy and jump to higher energy levels. As these electrons return to their original energy levels, they release energy in the form of light, resulting in the characteristic color emission observed in the flame test.
Flame Test
Flame Test is an analytical method used in chemistry to identify the presence of specific metal ions in a compound. When a sample is heated in a Bunsen burner flame, it emits a characteristic color, allowing the identification of the metal ion present. In this article, we will look into what the Flame test is, its procedure, applications and limitations, etc.
Table of Content
- What is Flame Test?
- How to Perform Flame Test
- Flame Test Colours
- Practical details to carry out the flame test
- Flame Test Colors Chart
- Applications of Flame Test
- Limitations of the Flame test