• Strontium Chloride • Sodium Carbonate
• Cupric Sulfate • Potassium Chloride • Cupric Chloride
Our flame test kit is an inexpensive way to visually determine the identity and presence of a metal or metalloid ion based on the color the chemical sample turns when placed in a flame.
To perform the test, wet a nichrome wire loop, as in an inoculating loop in pure alcohol (not included in this kit), pick up a small sample of one of the chemicals. Place the loop with the chemical in the hottest portion of a flame from a burner. Notice the color of the flame as the chemical sample burns.
Note that the wire should be well cleaned by dipping in alcohol between samples so no dust etc. interferes with the true color in the test sample flame. Stainless steel spatulas can also be used.
SAFETY: Wear chemical splash goggles, a lab chemical apron and youths should perform under supervision.
STORAGE OF CHEMICALS: Some of these chemicals are hygroscopic (i.e. they will absorb moisture from the air). Keep cap well sealed when not in use. If a chemical becomes slushy, try storing vial in a sealed container along with some desiccant such as a silica gel packet to remove the excess moisture.
ANOTHER OPTION: You can also demonstrate flame colors by making a small pile of one of the chemicals and wetting it with a few drops of flammable alcohol. Igniting the alcohol will burn the chemical and show its characteristic flame color.
To test an unknown mineral, compare its observed flame color with the known values from such as the list below:
| Flame Color | Chemical (kit contains 10 grams each) |
| RED | Strontium Chloride Get SDS |
| YELLOW | Sodium Carbonate Get MSDS |
| GREEN | Cupric Sulfate Get SDS |
| VIOLET | Potassium Chloride Get SDS |
| BLUE | Cupric Chloride Get MSDS |
DEFINITIONS:
- “SALTS” – Above chemicals are categorized chemically as salts, ionic compounds produced by reacting an acid with a base.
- METALOID ION – Resembles a metal; a non-metal which can combine with a metal to form an alloy.
RETURN POLICY:
Unopened chemicals in original packaging may be returned within 30 days of shipment with prior approval. Call 800-372-6726. Customers are responsible for shipping costs.
INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING:
Chemicals with hazard fees are limited to the 48 contiguous U.S. states. Ground-only (No-Fly) chemicals are limited to the 48 contiguous U.S. states and Canada.
CERTIFICATES OF ANALYSIS:
Certificates of Analysis for chemicals are available upon request. Use our request page at this link
