Flame Tests

Chemistry: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 8.3.1

Flame Tests

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

Lithium (Li+)

Lithium (Li+)

  • Crimson flame.
Sodium (Na+)

Sodium (Na+)

  • Yellow flame.
Potassium (K+)

Potassium (K+)

  • Lilac flame.
Calcium (Ca2+)

Calcium (Ca2+)

  • Orange-red flame.
Copper (Cu2+)

Copper (Cu2+)

  • Green flame.

Test yourself on Flame Tests

  • Which is the correct flame colour for each metal ion?

  • Which is the correct charge for the following metal ions?

  • A sample contains a mixture of potassium and sodium ions. What problem could this cause when using a flame test to identify them?

  • Which statement is correct about identifying metal ions in a flame test?

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