Flame Test
The Flame Test is a simple laboratory technique used to identify the presence of certain metal ions in a sample. When a sample is heated in a flame, the metal ions emit characteristic colors due to the excitation of their electrons. Each metal produces a unique color, allowing scientists to determine which elements are present.
Common metal ions tested include sodium, which produces a bright yellow flame, and copper, which gives a green flame. This method is often used in chemistry classes and can also be applied in fields like forensic science to analyze materials found at crime scenes.