13.2.1

Flame Tests

Test yourself

Flame Tests

Some metal ions can be identified using flame tests. The following positive metal ions all produce a characteristic flame colour when burned:

Illustrative background for Lithium (Li<sup>+</sup>)Illustrative background for Lithium (Li<sup>+</sup>) ?? "content

Lithium (Li+)

  • Crimson flame.
Illustrative background for Sodium (Na<sup>+</sup>)Illustrative background for Sodium (Na<sup>+</sup>) ?? "content

Sodium (Na+)

  • Yellow flame.
Illustrative background for Potassium (K<sup>+</sup>)Illustrative background for Potassium (K<sup>+</sup>) ?? "content

Potassium (K+)

  • Lilac flame.
Illustrative background for Calcium (Ca<sup>2+</sup>)Illustrative background for Calcium (Ca<sup>2+</sup>) ?? "content

Calcium (Ca2+)

  • Orange-red flame.
Illustrative background for Copper (Cu<sup>2+</sup>)Illustrative background for Copper (Cu<sup>2+</sup>) ?? "content

Copper (Cu2+)

  • Blue-green flame.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3Atomic Structure

4The Periodic Table

5Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6Bonding

7Electrolysis

8Groups of the Periodic Table

9The Atmosphere

10Reactivity Series

11Metal Extraction

12Acids & Alkalis

13Chemical Tests

14Physical Chemistry

15Organic Chemistry

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium