Learning of Flame Test using Low Cost Experiment

Abstract

Flame test is most frequently used for qualitative analysis of some metal ions. In the 
flame test, samples in the form of paste with concentrated hydrochloric acid are introduced in a 
hot, non-luminous flame using platinum wire and the color of flame is observed. The 
characteristic color of the flame reliably gives information about the presence of a particular 
metal ion present in the sample. Platinum is a costly metal and therefore, the cost of 
experimentation is high. However, continuous laboratory practices of flame test have evolved 
some new experimental procedures without platinum wire. These experiments are easy to 
perform and low cost is attractive feature of them. In the present study a low cost flame test was 
identified from the literature and it was introduced in the practical sessions of B.Sc. B.Ed. Part-I 
students. Usefulness and impact of the low cost experiment on learning of students was studied 
and results of the study have been complied in the form of present research paper