I need help with this chemistry flame test lab discussion question.
"List the metals used in this lab in increasing order of the energy of the light emitted."
We tested BaCl2, CaCl2, CuCl2, FE(NO3)3, KCl, LiCl, NaCl, & Sr(No3)2.
I'm not completely sure how to know the energy of the light emitted. Please help!
See your science post above.
To determine the increasing order of the energy of the light emitted in a flame test, you need to understand the concept of atomic spectra. When a metal ion is excited by heat and then returns to its ground state, it emits light with a specific wavelength or color characteristic of the metal.
Here are the steps to approach this question:
1. Research the flame colors of the metal ions: Start by looking up the flame colors associated with each metal in the lab. This will give you a general idea of the colors you observed during the experiment.
2. Understand the relationship between wavelength and energy: In general, shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy and vice versa. This principle applies to light emitted by metals during a flame test. So, metals emitting light of shorter wavelengths have higher energy.
3. Analyze the colors observed: Based on the flame colors observed during the lab, try to deduce the order of increasing wavelength and energy. In most cases, you can use your observations to make a reasonable estimate.
4. Consult the periodic table: If you need additional guidance, refer to the periodic table. The location of elements within the periodic table can provide some insight into the order of increasing energy. For example, elements in the same group generally have similar chemical properties and flame colors, so you can expect them to have similar emission energies.
5. Arrange the metals in increasing order: Using the information gathered from steps 1-4, create a list of metals in increasing order of energy of the light emitted.
Remember, the order you determine may not be precise, but it should be based on your observations and the general understanding of atomic spectra. Taking into account the limitations of your experiment and the specific conditions of your lab, make an educated estimation for the order of energy emitted by each metal in the flame test.