We did a lab in class on Friday where we stuck a metal loop in various chemicals and stuck it in the flame of a Bunsen burner and we observed the flame's colors as the different metals went in. For every lab we do, we have to write a writeup which involves a graph. How could I do a graph for this lab? We can do a line graph, bar graph, etc...

You might make a graph with the x-axis wavelength and the y-axis element. You may need to look up the wavelengths. The yellow line you see for Na is 589 nm, the violet for K is 404 and the crimson for Li is 671 nm (all of these are in round numbers). You can get more accurate by looking them up. For Ba the green/yellow color you see is not a line spectrum but a band spectrum for BaO.

Oh I see. Like ordering the energy levels of the elements, right? Like elements with red flames have a lower energy level than an element with a violet colored flame..

Yes. I don't know that the VISIBLE colors will fall on a straight line but I'm sure you can make the graph so it will make sense that way.

To create a graph for this lab, you will need to represent the relationship between the different metals and the observed flame colors. Since you have multiple metals and corresponding flame colors, a bar graph would be a suitable choice.

Here's how you can create a bar graph for your lab write-up:

1. Determine the variables: Identify the independent variable(s) (the metals) and the dependent variable (the flame colors).

2. Select the graph type: Since you are comparing different metals and their respective flame colors, a vertical bar graph would work well to visualize this comparison.

3. Choose the axes: Assign the metals to the horizontal (x) axis and the flame colors to the vertical (y) axis.

4. Plot the data: For each metal, create a vertical bar that represents its corresponding flame color. The height or length of each bar will depend on the intensity or concentration of the observed flame color.

5. Label the axes: Write clear and concise labels for both the x-axis (metals) and the y-axis (flame colors). Include relevant units if applicable.

6. Add a title: Give your graph a title that summarizes the purpose of the lab and the data being presented.

7. Decorate the graph: Consider using different colors or patterns to distinguish between the different metals or flame colors. Add a legend if necessary.

8. Include any necessary calculations or statistical information: Depending on the goals of the experiment, you may need to include additional calculations or statistical analysis related to the data. This could include measures of central tendency, standard deviation, or any other relevant statistical analysis.

Remember, the design of your graph may depend on the specific details and requirements of your lab assignment. Be sure to check any specific instructions provided by your teacher or follow any given format guidelines.