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What is the color of the flame test for SrCl2?

Feb 4，2024

Description

Strontium chloride is a typical salt of strontium and chlorine with the chemical formula SrCl2. It is a popular halide for making collodion chloride and printing out emulsions. This compound is the first toothpaste ingredient thought to occlude tubules based on an often misinterpreted using radiolabeled strontium and auto-radiography. The compounds of strontium have a lower order of toxicity.

Flame test for strontium chloride

Article illustration

Strontium and lithium salts produce red flames. Strontium, as strontium nitrate or strontium chloride, yields the red color seen in emergency flares and red fireworks. Lithium chloride produces a vivid reddish-violet or pink flame. The red color is bright enough that people will even see it in a regular wood-burning fire.

How Red Flames Work

The positive result of a flame test for strontium (Sr) produces a red color. This is due to the excitation of electrons in the strontium by the flame's heat. The heat of the fire gives the electrons in the atoms or ions enough energy to jump to an excited state. Electrons return to a less-excited or ground state, releasing the excess energy as photons (light) with a characteristic wavelength. Substances that make red flames predominantly emit photons in the 620 to 750 nm range. The red color comes from the emission spectra of elements and compounds. The color of the flame is different for different elements and can be used to identify unknown substances.

Incandescence also affects flame colors. This is the glow associated with flame temperature. Unfortunately, red incandescence is not very visible. Such a cool flame tends not to release much light, plus the human eye does not perceive red as readily as orange and yellow. Any sodium in the air or fuel overpowers red with a bright yellow color.

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