8.3.1 Flame Tests

• What can flame tests be used to identify?

  Metal ions (cations).
• What colour is a lithium flame?

  Crimson.
• What colour is a sodium flame?

  Yellow.
• What colour is a potassium flame?

  Lilac.
• What colour is a calcium flame?

  Orange-red.
• What colour is a copper flame?

  Green.
• What happens if the sample contains multiple cations?

  Flame colours are masked.