9th Grade Physical Science Core Labs

Links:

Purpose:
Observe the characteristic flame colors for metallic ions and identify an unknown based on previous observations.

Summary:
Students will identify the components of an unknown mixture of salts by a flame emission test.

Objectives Links:
3: A. Atoms

Process Skills Checklist

Materials:

• student spectroscope
• ring stand and ring clamp
• Bunsen burner
• nichrome wire loops
• 10% salt solutions (BaCl₂, CaCl₂, LiCl, NaCl, SrCl₂)

Safety Concerns:
Fire hazard; wear goggles & apron; wash hands; use caution when handling poisonous salts (especially barium chloride).

Revision Date:
August 2006