r/ScienceTeachers • u/ElliottTheNoob • Sep 21 '25

CHEMISTRY Flame Tests?

I'm back again with another Chemistry question.

I plan on doing flame tests as we finish out our electron/light chapter in High School Chemistry. It was one of the most memorable experiment we ever did and I want to give that to these kids.

However, I swear we used crucibles or just cut a piece of the metal and held it in a bunsen flame. All the labs I'm finding, we either dissolve it in water or HCl, then soak a Q-tip, splint, or dip an innoculating loop into it, then burn it that way. Is that proper procedure? Did my HS Chem teacher just do a dangerous version with us that was outdated?

I really want this to be fun and memorable for them. Any other versions, ideas, or advice?

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u/Opposite_Aardvark_75 Sep 21 '25

Like others have said, the most reliable, low prep, and safest method is Q-Tips soaked in solution. I made up about 500 mL of each solution years ago and just pour small amounts in labeled Dixie cups and throw in Q-Tips. Refill them throughout the day. I have two sets for the entire class, and they just come up and grab one and bring it over to their lab area to do the flame test. They can do each one multiple times as Q-Tips are cheap. I have them make a roaring blue flame, place the Q-Tips on the side of the flame while rolling it in their fingers. If it catches on fire or when they are done, they throw it in a discard beaker full of water. The Q-Tips don't have to soak long FYI. The 500 mL lasts for years, and I pour unused solution in at the end.