In a flame test, which colour indicates copper(II) ions (Cu2+)?

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Multiple Choice

In a flame test, which colour indicates copper(II) ions (Cu2+)?

Explanation:
When a metal ion is heated in a flame, its electrons gain energy and jump to higher levels. As they fall back, they emit light at specific wavelengths. For copper, these emissions fall in the blue-green part of the spectrum, so the flame looks turquoise or blue-green. That distinctive blue-green glow is why copper(II) ions are identified by this color in a flame test. Other colors would point to different elements or impurities, but copper’s characteristic emission is blue-green.

When a metal ion is heated in a flame, its electrons gain energy and jump to higher levels. As they fall back, they emit light at specific wavelengths. For copper, these emissions fall in the blue-green part of the spectrum, so the flame looks turquoise or blue-green. That distinctive blue-green glow is why copper(II) ions are identified by this color in a flame test. Other colors would point to different elements or impurities, but copper’s characteristic emission is blue-green.

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