Instrumental analysis and flame tests: crimson for lithium
I can identify metal ions based on the colour of their flame tests and understand how instrumental analysis methods are used for detecting and identifying elements.
Instrumental analysis and flame tests: crimson for lithium
I can identify metal ions based on the colour of their flame tests and understand how instrumental analysis methods are used for detecting and identifying elements.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Positive ions burn with distinct colours that are visible when heated above a blue Bunsen flame.
- Unique flame emission spectra are produced for each positive metal ion.
- Instrumental methods are accurate, sensitive, and rapid for detecting and identifying elements and compounds.
- A spectrometer can split light from coloured flames into flame emission spectra.
- A spectrometer can measure more than one metal ion in a single solution and the concentration of each.
Keywords
Flame test - A test where a chemical put into a flame produces a characteristic colour (tests for metal ions).
Spectroscope - An instrument that separates light into its component wavelengths.
Ion - An ion is an atom or group of atoms with a positive or negative charge due to the loss or gain of electrons.
Concentration - The amount of a solute dissolved in a certain volume of solvent.
Calibration curve - A graph used to determine the concentration of a substance in a sample.
Common misconception
Flame colours are unique, even in mixtures.
Explain that strong colours, like sodium's yellow, can mask others. Use spectrometry to identify masked elements.
To help you plan your year 11 chemistry lesson on: Instrumental analysis and flame tests: crimson for lithium, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 chemistry lesson on: Instrumental analysis and flame tests: crimson for lithium, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 chemistry lessons from the Chemical analysis unit, dive into the full secondary chemistry curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Bunsen burner setup, 'unknown' metal salt samples to do flame tests, nichrome wire loops, dilute hydrochloric acid, beakers, matches.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - chemicals
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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