Flame Tests and Emission Spectroscopy Experiment

Description

The concept of spectrum analysis is introduced with this kit as students conduct these dramatically colorful, spectroscopy experiments. Students use safe, non-flammable, water-based solutions containing a variety of salts to observe the colors that various metallic elements produce when burned. Then, the students view the flame through a spectroscope and observe the spectra of each of the elements that are visible to the human eye. Students learn that no two spectrum have identical colors. They work in teams as one student uses a small bottle to spray a fine mist of each solution through a flame and a team-mate observes the spectrum created. This activity’s procedure is also an important step in the analysis of an unknown substance.

Kit Contents:
12 x Spectroscopes, Lab-Aids®
2 x Barium chloride Solution, Spray Bottle
2 x Calcium chloride Solution, Spray Bottle
2 x Lithium chloride Solution, Spray Bottle
2 x Potassium chloride Solution, Spray Bottle
2 x Sodium chloride Solution, Spray Bottle
2 x Strontium chloride Solution, Spray Bottle
30 x Student Worksheets and Guides
1 x Teacher’s Guide with MSDS

**Not included and needed for instruction: At least 6 (preferably 12) Bunsen burners, eyewear**