Flame Tests and Emission Spectroscopy Experiment
kit #111
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.
Bunsen burners are required, but not included in the kit.
A Bunsen Burner or other flame source is needed to perform the activities in this kit.
- Observe and record colors emitted by elements upon heating
- Observe individual spectrum through hand held spectroscopes
- Explore process of spectrum analysis
Content List in Flame Tests and Emission Spectroscopy Experiment is as follows:
Quantity | Description |
---|---|
1 | Teacher’s Guide with MSDS |
30 | Student Worksheets and Guides |
12 | Spectroscopes, LAB-AIDS® |
2 | Barium chloride Solution, Spray bottle |
2 | Calcium chloride Solution, Spray bottle |
2 | Lithium chloride Solution, Spray bottle |
2 | Potassium chloride Solution, Spray bottle |
2 | Sodium chloride Solution, Spray bottle |
2 | Strontium chloride Solution, Spray bottle |
- Number of students
- 30
- Number of groups
- Maximum 12 groups per period

To complete this kit requires one ~50-minute class period.