Flame Tests and Atomic Spectra

Use the Lab Experiments pack or Download Lab Procedure and Download Lab Report

Read the Lab Procedure to understand background and prepare before lab

Complete prelab assignment

Learning Objectives

- Perform flame tests of metal cations in order to observe their characteristic colors
- Perform calculations to determine the frequency and energy of the emitted photons
- Relate these results to the types of electronic transitions occurring in these elements
- Observe and understand line emission spectra of atoms using gas discharge tubes

Background

These slides introduce electromagnetic radiation and the electron transitions inside an atom that allow us to see colored flames in these experiments: Flame Tests Lab

You'll be doing calculations and analysis for the lab report. The video below is a review of what we covered in lecture, but will also be covering in this lab.

Wavelength, Frequency and Energy Calculations in EM Radiation

Video Assignment

Review the line emission spectrum of hydrogen and how its understanding led to the Bohr model of atomic structure

Complete video assignment

Lab Report

During lab, collect experimental data, complete calculations and answer questions on the lab report

Submit lab report