COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Department of Criminology

FOSC 3: Forensic Chemistry

and Toxicology

Laboratory Report
Experiment 8:
The Flame Test

Group 2

Abas, Angel E.
Alayon, Leorey D.
De Ocampo, Josh Zion P.
Inocencio, Axel Rose B.
Locaylocay, Ron Ivance D.
Maglabe, Mekaela Roseth T.
Molina, Julianne Maye A.
Romano, Angelica B.
Tolentino, Carlo Enrico N.
Zapanta, Jancel Mae R.

Sir Kim Beligon

Instructor
 Laboratory Report Sheet
Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology – 1st Semester, S.Y. 2024- 2025

Name: ___________________________ Date Submitted: December 11, 2024

Year and Section: BS Criminology 3-4 Date Performed: December 04, 2024
Group Number: Group 2 Score: ________________________

Experiment 8:
The Flame Test
Objectives

a. To identify metal ions based on the characteristic colors they emit when heated.
b. To observe the connection between flame color and the wavelength of emitted light
in the visible spectrum.
c. To compare and contrast the flame colors of various metal ions and relate them to
their atomic properties.
d. To practice laboratory techniques, including the use of a nichrome wire and the
preparation of metal ion solutions.

Data and Analysis

 Flame Test

Metal Ion Approximate Color Wavelength

Ca²⁺ Orange 600 nm
Li⁺ Red 685 nm
Na⁺ Yellow 570 nm
Sr²⁺ Red 685 nm
K⁺ Violet 405 nm
Ba²⁺ Green 525 nm
Cu²⁺ Blue-Green 525 nm

Discussion and Interpretation

The flame test demonstrates how metal ions emit specific colors of light when heated. These
colors result from the excitation and subsequent relaxation of electrons within the atom.

1. Relation of Colors to Metal Ions

Each metal ion emits a distinct flame color due to its unique electronic transitions:

 Calcium (Ca²⁺): Emits an orange color with a wavelength of 600 nm. This
transition releases light in the middle of the visible spectrum.
  Lithium (Li⁺): Produces a red flame at 685 nm, associated with lower-energy
red light.
 Sodium (Na⁺): Shows a bright yellow flame at 570 nm, indicative of higher-
energy yellow light.
 Strontium (Sr²⁺): Similar to lithium, it emits a red flame at 685 nm.
 Potassium (K⁺): Emits violet light at 405 nm, corresponding to high-energy
light near the blue-violet end of the spectrum.
 Barium (Ba²⁺): Produces a green flame at 525 nm, releasing energy in the
middle visible spectrum.
 Copper (Cu²⁺): Shows a blue-green flame at 525 nm, resulting from unique
transitions of its electrons.

2. Significance of Wavelengths

The emitted wavelengths fall within the visible spectrum (400-700 nm), allowing the
identification of metal ions by their flame colors:

 Shorter wavelengths (e.g., 405 nm for potassium) produce higher-energy

light, leading to violet or blue hues.
 Longer wavelengths (e.g., 685 nm for lithium and strontium) emit lower-
energy light, leading to red hues.

3. Color Emission Mechanism

 When energy is supplied (e.g., from the flame), electrons in the metal ions absorb
the energy and move to a higher energy level (excited state).
 As they return to their ground state, they release energy in the form of light.
 The color observed corresponds to the specific wavelengths of light emitted,
determined by the element's unique electron configuration.

Conclusion

The flame test experiment demonstrates how metal ions emit specific colors
of light when heated, providing a simple yet effective method for identifying elements
based on their unique emission spectra. The colors observed are a result of electrons
absorbing energy, transitioning to an excited state, and releasing energy as visible
light upon returning to their ground state. Each metal ion emits a distinct color due to
its unique electron configuration, which determines the wavelength of light released.
Shorter wavelengths, such as violet at approximately 405 nm, correspond to higher-
energy emissions, while longer wavelengths, like red at about 685 nm, indicate
lower-energy emissions.

Additionally, the flame colors of various metal ions were compared and
contrasted, revealing the relationship between their atomic properties and light
emission. For instance, although lithium and strontium both emitted red light, their
shades and intensities varied due to differences in their atomic structures. The
experiment also provided an opportunity to practice essential laboratory techniques,
 such as the proper use of a nichrome wire, solution preparation, and equipment
cleaning to prevent contamination. These practical skills ensured accurate and
reliable results. Overall, the experiment effectively met its goals, reinforcing the
principles of atomic behavior and emission spectra while cultivating hands-on
laboratory proficiency.

Guide Questions:

1. How are the colors in the flame tests produced (in terms of electrons and
energy states)?

The colors in flame tests are produced due to the excitation and relaxation of
electrons in the metal ions. When energy is supplied through heat, the electrons
absorb this energy and jump from their ground state (lowest energy level) to an
excited state (higher energy level). Since the excited state is unstable, the electrons
quickly return to their ground state, releasing the absorbed energy as
electromagnetic radiation. The energy released corresponds to specific wavelengths
within the visible light spectrum (400-700 nm), producing a color unique to each
metal ion. These colors are determined by the ion's distinct electron configuration
and energy level differences.

2. What is the importance of acid washing?

Acid washing is an essential step in ensuring accurate flame test results. By cleaning
the nichrome wire with a strong acid like HCl, any contaminants or residual
substances that could interfere with the test are removed. This prevents the
introduction of unwanted colors into the flame, ensuring that the observed color is
solely from the metal ion being tested. Acid washing helps maintain the precision and
reliability of the experiment, especially when testing multiple samples.

3. What is the importance of Identifying Colors of Visible Light?

In Determining the Components of a Sample

The unique colors emitted by metal ions during flame tests provide a simple and
effective way to identify their presence in a sample. This qualitative analysis
technique is widely used in chemistry to detect specific elements. It is especially
valuable in forensic science, materials testing, and quality control, where quick
identification of elements is essential.

In Astronomy

Identifying colors of visible light is a cornerstone of astronomical spectroscopy, a

technique used to analyze the light from stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects.
By studying the emitted or absorbed light, scientists can determine the chemical
composition, temperature, velocity, and distance of astronomical bodies. For
example, the unique spectral lines observed in a star’s light indicate the presence of
elements like hydrogen or helium. This information helps astronomers understand
the physical properties, origins, and evolution of the universe.
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Department of Criminology

FOSC 3: Forensic Chemistry

and Toxicology

Laboratory Report
Experiment 9: Chemical
Test for Explosives

Group 2

Abas, Angel E.
Alayon, Leorey D.
De Ocampo, Josh Zion P.
Inocencio, Axel Rose B.
Locaylocay, Ron Ivance D.
Maglabe, Mekaela Roseth T.
Molina, Julianne Maye A.
Romano, Angelica B.
Tolentino, Carlo Enrico N.
Zapanta, Jancel Mae R.
 Sir Kim Beligon
Instructor

Laboratory Report Sheet

Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology – 1st Semester, S.Y. 2024- 2025

Name: ___________________________ Date Submitted: December 12, 2024

Year and Section: BS Criminology 3-4 Date Performed: December 05, 2024
Group Number: Group 2 Score: ________________________

Experiment 9:
Chemical Test for Explosives
Objectives

a. To determine the presence of nitrates compounds and ammonium nitrate in different

substances.
b. To understand the chemical reactions of nitrate salts with specific reagents.
c. To explore the role of nitrates in explosives and related applications.
d. To highlight the significance of nitrate detection in safety and regulatory contexts.

Data and Analysis

A. Test For Nitrates

Powder Observation Nitrate (+/-)

Calcium Nitrate Blue color after adding DPA reagent; strong alkaline +
odor;
Ammonium Nitrate Blue color after adding DPA reagent; strong alkaline
odor; appearance of a green color surrounding the +
dark blue in the nitrate test
Firecracker Blue color after adding DPA reagent; strong alkaline +
odor; minimal explosion
Gunpowder Blue color after adding DPA reagent; strong alkaline
odor; there is a presence of insoluble substances or +
impurities that do not dissolve in the reagent
solution
Fertilizer Green color was produced after adding DPA
reagent; strong alkaline odor; crystal-like -
appearance

B. Test For Ammonium Nitrates

Powder Observation Nitrate (+/-)

Calcium Nitrate No precipitate after adding Nessler’s reagent; red
 litmus turned blue; strong alkaline odor; fine -
bubbles were produced
Ammonium Nitrate Brown-orange precipitate after adding Nessler’s +
reagent; red litmus turned blue; strong alkaline odor
Firecracker No precipitate after adding Nessler’s reagent; red
litmus turned blue; strong alkaline odor; dirty green -
in color
Gunpowder No precipitate after adding Nessler’s reagent; red
litmus turned blue; strong alkaline odor; there is a -
presence of insoluble substances or impurities that
do not dissolve in the reagent solution
Fertilizer Brown-orange precipitate after adding Nessler’s
reagent; red litmus turned blue; strong alkaline +
odor; bubbles were produced

Interpretation of the Results

A. Analysis for Nitrates:

 Positive Results (+): All substances containing nitrates (e.g., calcium nitrate,
ammonium nitrate, firecracker, gunpowder) showed the expected blue color after
adding DPA reagent, indicating the presence of nitrate ions.

 Negative Result (-): Fertilizer showed a green color instead of the expected blue.
This suggests that the fertilizer may contain other compounds that interfere with
the nitrate test, or it may not contain sufficient nitrate ions to form a blue color.

B. Analysis for Ammonium Nitrates:

 Positive Results (+):

Ammonium Nitrate: A brown-orange precipitate confirmed the presence of

ammonium nitrate.

Fertilizer: The brown-orange precipitate in the fertilizer indicates the presence of

ammonium ions, suggesting that the fertilizer contains ammonium nitrate or a
similar ammonium compound.

 Negative Results (-):

Calcium Nitrate: No precipitate formed, indicating the absence of ammonium ions.

The fine bubbles observed may be due to other reactions but not related to
ammonium nitrate.

Firecracker: The absence of a precipitate and the dirty green color suggest that
the firecracker may not contain ammonium nitrate or may contain it in insufficient
quantity for a positive reaction.

Gunpowder: Similarly, the absence of a precipitate and the presence of insoluble

substances indicates no significant amount of ammonium nitrate in the sample.

Conclusion
 The experiment successfully determined the presence of nitrate compounds and
ammonium nitrate in various substances through chemical testing. Nitrate compounds, such
as those found in calcium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, firecracker, and gunpowder, were
detected by the blue color formed after adding the Diphenylamine (DPA) reagent, confirming
the presence of nitrates. In the ammonium nitrate test, ammonium nitrate and fertilizer
showed a brown-orange precipitate after the addition of Nessler’s reagent, indicating the
presence of ammonium ions. These results provided a clear understanding of the chemical
reactions of nitrate salts with specific reagents, demonstrating how nitrate compounds can
be identified based on their unique reactions.

The exploration of nitrates in explosives revealed the role of nitrate salts in materials
like gunpowder and firecrackers, which are commonly used in explosive applications. The
presence of nitrates in these substances is critical for understanding their explosive
properties and potential hazards. The experiment also highlighted the importance of nitrate
detection in safety and regulatory contexts, as substances like fertilizers and firecrackers
may contain significant amounts of nitrate or ammonium nitrate, which require careful
handling and regulation. Accurate identification of nitrates is vital for ensuring safety in both
industrial and public settings, preventing misuse, and enforcing safety standards in
explosives-related industries. Overall, the experiment underscored the importance of reliable
nitrate detection in various applications and regulatory practices.

Guide Questions:

1. Explain briefly the rationale of the DPA test and Nessler’s Reagent. Write the
chemical reaction for each test

Rationale of the DPA Test (Diphenylamine Test)

The Diphenylamine (DPA) test is a qualitative test used to detect the presence of
nitrate ions (NO₃⁻) in a sample. The rationale behind this test is that nitrate ions,
when treated with DPA reagent in an acidic or alkaline medium, undergo a reduction
reaction that produces a blue color. This reaction is specific to nitrate compounds,
making the DPA test a reliable method for identifying nitrates in substances like
gunpowder, fertilizers, and other nitrate-based materials. The blue color indicates the
presence of nitrate ions (NO₃⁻) reacting with the DPA, and the intensity of the color
can help estimate the concentration of nitrates.

Rationale of Nessler’s Reagent Test

The Nessler's reagent test is used to detect the presence of ammonium ions (NH₄⁺)
in a sample. Nessler’s reagent contains potassium tetraiodomercurate (K₂HgI₄),
which reacts with ammonium ions in an alkaline solution to form a brown-orange
precipitate of mercuric iodide (HgI₂). The rationale behind this test is that ammonium
ions react with the reagent in a specific manner to form the characteristic brown-
orange precipitate, which serves as a positive indicator for the presence of
ammonium nitrate or ammonium-based compounds in the sample.
In the presence of ammonium ions, the reaction forms a brown-orange precipitate of
mercuric iodide (Hg₂I₄), confirming the presence of ammonium compounds.