Testing For Cations.

• Cation is a positively charged ion, that is attracted to the cathode in electrolysis.
• Flame Tests identify metal ions
• In A Flame Test, You sterilise the Nichrome Wire by dipping it in HCl and burning it under a blue flame until it glows.

  
• Sterilising the Nichrome Wire, allows there to be no mixing or masking of colours.
• Lithium: Crimson Red, Sodium: Yellow, Potassium: Lilac, Calcium: Orange-red, Copper: Green.
• Lithium: Crimson Red, Sodium: Yellow, Potassium: Lilac, Calcium: Orange-red, Copper: Green

  
• Aluminium, Calcium and Magnesium Form White Precipitates. ADD Excess Sodium Hydroxide to Aluminium, It will dissolve. Then, flame Magnesium and Calcium. Calcium will make an orange flame.
• Coloured Precipitates: Sodium Hydroxide + Solution. Copper: Blue, Iron(II): Green, Iron(III): Brown, Calcium: White, Aluminium: White, Magnesium: White