Ion flame test


Why is it important to not let the wooden splint burn ?

The wooden splint should not be allowed to burn during an ion flame test for several reasons:

1. Contamination: Wood contains impurities, such as resins and oils, that can interfere with the clarity of the flame color. These impurities can produce their own colors, making it difficult to distinguish the true flame color caused by the presence of specific ions.

2. False results: Burning wood can produce its own characteristic flame color, which could be mistaken for the presence of certain ions. This can lead to inaccurate or misleading results during the ion flame test.

To prevent these issues, it is important to make sure the wooden splint is only used as a support for the sample being tested and is not allowed to burn.