Flame tests

Start with the flame colors

The Flame Tests mind map introduces flame tests as a way to detect some metal ions. It connects copper with green, potassium with lilac, calcium with red and sodium with orange or yellow. It also outlines the equipment and method, so it is a useful starting point for seeing the colors alongside the test itself.

For a different way to study the same associations, the Flame tests flashcard deck pairs metal names with colors. It includes lithium and barium as well as potassium, sodium, calcium and copper. The Positive ion tests deck asks about the flame colors produced by lithium, sodium, potassium and calcium ions.

Move from method to practice

After looking at the colors, use the flashcard deck that asks how to carry out a flame test and what happens to the wire loop before each sample. A separate mind map on chemical analysis describes cleaning the wire in acid and a flame before placing it in a metal salt. These resources give you a way to put the steps in order alongside the color associations.

Then try the Flame tests quiz. Use the mind map and flashcards to check any colors or steps you want to study again. Moving between a map and cards can help you see the information as a whole and then focus on individual associations.

Explore the unit

Flame tests is one section of the Chemical Analysis and Tests unit in Chemistry. The page also lists a broader chemical analysis mind map that includes flame tests and gas tests. It offers a way to see the flame-test material alongside other test material in the unit.

Choose a map, then use a flashcard deck to practice the colors.