Name:_______________________________ Period:________
1 | P a g e
Flame Test Lab
PURPOSE: The purpose of this experiment is to observe the characteristic flame test colors when
burning different metal cations. Students will use this information to identify an unknown.
SAFETY:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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6.
MATERIALS:
-Sodium Chloride solution
-Copper(II) Chloride solution
-Lithium Chloride solution
-Potassium Chloride solution
-Strontium Chloride solution
-Barium Chloride solution
-Calcium Chloride solution
-Unknown salt solution
-Bunsen Burner
-Wood splints
-Metal tongs or test tube clamps
PROCEDURE:
1. Open gas valve and then use flint tool to light Bunsen burner.
2. Adjust Bunsen burner until flame is entirely blue.
3. Obtain a wet wood splint.
4. Hold one end of splint with tongs.
5. Hold the chemical end of splint over the Bunsen burner, near tip of blue flame.
6. Observe the color of the flame.
7. WHEN/IF SPLINT BEGINS TO BURN, EXTINGUISH IN BEAKER OF WATER.
8. Record the flame color observed in data table.
9. Repeat steps 3 through 9 with 6 other chemicals and one unknown.
10. Turn gas valve off to extinguish Bunsen burner.
11. Clean up work area and wash hands.
