A New Method for a Safer Flame Test

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Bibliographic Details
Title: A New Method for a Safer Flame Test
Language: English
Authors: Kristin M. Sobie (ORCID 0009-0008-2146-8303), Aubree L. Nolan, Hannah M. Ferguson, Jeffrey D. Mighion (ORCID 0000-0001-6908-5186), Erin Michael McLaughlin (ORCID 0000-0002-1330-5597), Christopher J. Fenk
Source: Journal of Chemical Education. 2026 103(3):1703-1708.
Availability: Division of Chemical Education, Inc. and ACS Publications Division of the American Chemical Society. 1155 Sixteenth Street NW, Washington, DC 20036. Tel: 800-227-5558; Tel: 202-872-4600; e-mail: eic@jce.acs.org; Web site: http://pubs.acs.org/jchemeduc
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 6
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Science Instruction, Chemistry, Inhalants, Laboratory Safety, Heat, Higher Education, Fire Protection, Risk Assessment
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jchemed.5c00969
ISSN: 0021-9584
1938-1328
Abstract: Herein we present a new adaptation of the classic flame or rainbow demonstration displaying the atomic emission of inorganic salts where organic solvents are used in a safe manner, thereby preventing incidents or injury. The flame test demonstration (subsequently referred to as the flame test) is a well-known and informative experiment; however, it can be dangerous if performed incorrectly. This version of the classic flame test applies the R.A.M.P. method of hazard risk assessment to provide a safer alternative to past variations. This new flame test allows for an impressive demonstration of atomic absorption and color emission of ionized gases in a safe environment.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1499572
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Herein we present a new adaptation of the classic flame or rainbow demonstration displaying the atomic emission of inorganic salts where organic solvents are used in a safe manner, thereby preventing incidents or injury. The flame test demonstration (subsequently referred to as the flame test) is a well-known and informative experiment; however, it can be dangerous if performed incorrectly. This version of the classic flame test applies the R.A.M.P. method of hazard risk assessment to provide a safer alternative to past variations. This new flame test allows for an impressive demonstration of atomic absorption and color emission of ionized gases in a safe environment.
ISSN:0021-9584
1938-1328
DOI:10.1021/acs.jchemed.5c00969