How Fires Burn in Different Colors

Grade Level: 7th to 9th; Type: Chemistry

Objective:

In this experiment you will observe fire burning in different colors.

Research Questions:

• Why do you think each fire burns a different color?
• Which color do you think is the hottest?
• Which color do you think is the coldest?

Materials:

• Menthol
• Epsom salt (Magnesium Sulfate)
• No salt - salt substitute (potassium chloride/bitartrate)
• Borax (boric acid)
• Bowl
• Lighter torch

Experimental Procedure

• WHITE

1. Pour 1/4 cup of magnesium sulfate into the bowl.
2. Pour 1/2 cup of the menthol into the bowl.
3. Light the mixture with the lighter torch.
4. Observe.

• BLUE VIOLET

1. Pour 1/4 cup of potassium chloride/bitartrate into the bowl.
2. Pour 1/2 cup of menthol into the bowl.
3. Light the mixture with the lighter torch.
4. Observe.

• GREEN

1. Pour 1/4 cup of boric acid into the bowl.
2. Pour 1/2 cup of menthol into the bowl.
3. Light the mixture with the lighter torch.
4. Observe.

Terms/Concepts: flame test, elements
References: Flame Tests:  How To Do Flame Tests