Name: ________________________________ Period: _____ Date: ______________________
Flame Tests
Data Table
Metal Ion
Color of Flame
Calcium
Copper
Lithium
Sodium
Potassium
Strontium
Iron
Barium
Unknown
Post-Lab Questions
1. How did you figure out the identity of the unknown Metal Ion?
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2. In terms of electrons and Aufbau Principle, why do Metal Ions give off colored light?
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3. Why do you think that each element gave off different colored light?
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4. What is the unit of light called that is released when the electrons “cool off?”
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5. A glass rod was heated in a burner flame and gave off a bright yellow flame. What metal
predominates in the glass rod? How do you know?
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6. The alkali metals cesium (Cs) and rubidium (Rb) were discovered based on their characteristic
flame colors. Cesium is named after the sky and rubidium after the gem color. What colors of
light do you think these metals give off when heated in a flame?
Cesium = ____________________________________________________________________
Rubidium = __________________________________________________________________
7. Describe a Scientific Mystery (Forensic or otherwise) in which the flame test could be used.
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