tested demonstrcrtions Multiple Burning Heaps of ColorAn Elegant Variation of a Flame Test Submitted by: Eugene T. Smith Florida Institute of Technology Melbourne, FL 32901 Checked by:
Richard F. Jones Sinclair Community College Dayton, OH 44502 Numerous colorful and easy flame tests that can be used in lecture demonstrations to introduce atomic emission spectroscopy have been described in this Journal (1-9). This simple demonstration, however, is unique in that it simultaneously illustrates the differences in the atomic emission of various elements, and i t requires the least amount of time for preparation and cleanup. This colorful demonstration, which is visualized easily in a darkened lecture hall, requires a few watch glasses, a few milliliters of methanol, any variety of (but not limited to) chloride salts, and matches. A small scoopula of each salt (0.5-1.0 g) is heaped onto individual watch glasses, a small amount of methanol (0.5 mL) is added to the top of each mound with a Pasteur pipet, and the piles are lit sequentially with a single match. The flaming heaps will remain lit for about one minute, depending on the amount of methanol added. I t is explained during the demonstration that the salts undergo no chemical reaction, and this experiment can be repeated with the addition of more methanol. I t also is pointed out that all of these salts are white, yet emit light of different wavelengths when heated (e.g., NaCl, yellow; KC1, violet; BaClz, green-yellow; SrClz, red), a n d t h a t these salts are used commonly in fireworks. Literature Cited 1. Ager, D. J.: East, M. 8.;Miller, 8.A. J. Chem. Educ. 1988,65,545. 2. Barnes, 2. K J Chem. Educ lS91.68.246.
3. Boueher,J.H.J. Chsm. Educ 1986,63,158. 4. Gouge,E.M. J Chem Educ. 1988,65,544.
5. Mattson,B.M.; Snipp, R. L.;Miehels. G. D. J C h . Edur 1990, 67.791 6. McRae, R.A ; Jones, R. F. J. Chem. Educ 1894,71.68.
Fiaure 1. Exoeriment's setuo: A. 20- or 50-rnL alass svrinoe. 8. No. 2
