This video demonstrates the classic chemistry experiment known as the Flame Test. In this experiment, various cations from ionic compounds (or salts) are exposed to a Bunsen burner flame. The energy from the flame is absorbed by one of the electrons located in the ground state of the cation which allows it to transition to a higher energy level. This is now know as an excited state. In order to transition back to the lower energy level (the ground state), the electron must emit the exact amount of energy it absorbed. When the electron does so, a photon of light, corresponding to the energy required for the transition, is released. The energy of this photon is directly related to a frequency and this frequency is inversely proportional to a wavelength of light that falls with in the visible spectrum of electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, the photons of light being released change the color of the flame.

Furthermore, each cation experiences a unique electron transition which produces a certain color flame. For example, sodium cations turns the flame yellow/orange while copper cations allow the flame to turn green/blue. So the color of the flame can be used to identify the cation.

This chemistry is seen in a fireworks display, color changing birthday candles, or even the packets of salts that promise to produce magical flames.

Hope this video is useful in understanding the concepts behind this experiment!

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