In a flame test, which colour indicates the presence of calcium ions (Ca2+)?

In a flame test, which colour indicates the presence of calcium ions (Ca2+)?

• A. Orange-red
• B. Blue-green
• C. Brick red
• D. Yellow

Answer: (A)

When metal ions are heated in a flame, their electrons gain energy and then release light as they drop back to lower levels. The light appears at specific wavelengths that act like a fingerprint for each element. Calcium ions produce a bright orange-red flame because the energy transitions in calcium emit light in that orange-red part of the spectrum. That distinctive color is the best clue that calcium is present in the sample. The other colors listed are associated with other elements, so they wouldn’t indicate calcium.

When metal ions are heated in a flame, their electrons gain energy and then release light as they drop back to lower levels. The light appears at specific wavelengths that act like a fingerprint for each element. Calcium ions produce a bright orange-red flame because the energy transitions in calcium emit light in that orange-red part of the spectrum. That distinctive color is the best clue that calcium is present in the sample. The other colors listed are associated with other elements, so they wouldn’t indicate calcium.