Flame test is a way of identifying a chemical element by the color of the light it gives off when held in a flame. For most elements, the test can be made by dipping a platinum wire in a compound of the element, either powdered or in solution. The wire is then held in the flame of a Bunsen burner (see Bunsen burner).
An element always gives off flame of the same color. For example, compounds of barium color the flame yellowish green. Flames of calcium are orange-red. Copper gives off an emerald-green color. Lithium’s flame is deep red. Sodium’s flame is yellow. Strontium gives off a crimson flame. Potassium’s flame is violet.
See also Mineral (Other identification tests).
