Flame Test Reference Guide

Interactive offline reference for identifying metal ions by characteristic flame emission colors. For students, researchers, and lab technicians. Includes color approximations, spectral lines (nm), and common compound examples. 100% offline, no data sent.

Educational only. Follow your lab SOPs and SDS. Use proper PPE (heat-resistant gloves, goggles) and work in a fume hood for toxic metal compounds.

Flame Color Identifier

Search by Ion or Compound

Enter element symbol, common name, compound, or wavelength.

Filter by Observed Color

Metal Ion	Flame Color	Wavelength Range (nm)	Example Compounds	Notes

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Color Mixing Predictor

Real flames often contain multiple ions. Predict the perceived color when two emissions mix.

First Ion

Second Ion

Predicted Dominant Color:

Select two ions above.

Flame Test Principles

Heat excites metal electrons; they emit characteristic colors upon relaxation. Used for qualitative analysis of Group 1, 2, and transition metals.

Step-by-Step Usage

Clean nichrome/platinum wire in concentrated HCl.
Dip in sample, introduce to Bunsen flame edge.
Observe color against dark background.
Compare to reference; note persistent vs fleeting colors.

Examples

Sodium chloride (NaCl): Intense yellow (589 nm).
Potassium chloride (KCl): Lilac/violet (404 nm, 766 nm).
Copper(II) chloride (CuCl₂): Blue-green with green flashes.

Common Mistakes

Contaminated wire (always clean thoroughly).
Misinterpreting orange (Ca) vs yellow (Na).
Overlooking blue Bunsen flame masking weak colors.
Not accounting for sodium impurity (ubiquitous).

FAQ

How accurate are these colors?

Colors are approximations. Actual hue depends on concentration, flame temperature, viewing conditions, and presence of other ions.

Why do some metals not produce colors?

Not all metals have strong emission lines in visible spectrum (e.g., Al, Zn). Some require hotter flames or spectroscopic detection.

Safety: What about toxic metals?

Use minimal amounts. Barium, lead, arsenic, thallium compounds require fume hood, gloves, and proper waste disposal. Never test unknown mixtures.

Methodology & Disclaimer

Formulas & Assumptions: Colors mapped to dominant emission wavelengths from NIST atomic spectra database. Mixing uses additive color model (light). Rounded to nearest 5 nm.

Disclaimer: For informational and educational purposes only. Estimates depend on your inputs and simplifying assumptions. This tool does not replace professional judgment, lab SOPs, or safety procedures. Always follow SDS guidance and institutional policies.

Sources: Common chemistry constants; Standard qualitative analysis references; Laboratory safety basics and SDS principles.

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Flame Test Reference Guide

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