flame tests

Question 1

which type of metal wire is used for flame test?

Answer 1

nichrome or platinum (both unreactive)

Question 2

which type of flame do we use for start of flame test?

Answer 2

blue until there is no colour change

Question 3

why do we Dip the loop of an unreactive metal wire such as nichrome or platinum in dilute acid, and then hold it in the blue flame of a Bunsen burner until there is no colour change?

Answer 3

This cleans the wire loop and avoids contamination
This is an important step as the test will only work if there is just one type of ion present
Two or more ions means the colours will mix, making identification erroneous

Question 4

Li+ flame colour?

Answer 4

Red

Question 5

Na+ flame colour?

Answer 5

yellow

Question 6

K+ flame colour?

Answer 6

lilac

Question 7

Ca2+ flame colour?

Answer 7

orange-red

Question 8

Cu2+ flame colour?

Answer 8

Blue-green

Question 9

what is flame test used to test for?

Answer 9

diff types of metal ions