When Calcium Chloride (CaCl2) was subjected to the flame test, it causes the flame of the gas burner to turn bright orange. How would you explain the appearance of a color in the flame?
electrons are raised to higher energy levels by the heat of the flame
oxidation takes place
electrons in the highest levels are repelling each other
electrons drop back to lower energy levels and emit energy
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Electrons drop back to lower energy levels and emit energy.
Explanation:
When calcium chloride (CaCl₂) is subjected to a flame test, the heat of the flame excites the electrons in calcium ions (Ca²⁺). These electrons absorb energy and move to higher energy levels (excited state). However, this excited state is unstable, and the electrons quickly return to their original lower energy levels (ground state). During this transition, the excess energy is released in the form of light.
The specific wavelengths of light emitted depend on the energy difference between the excited and ground states. In the case of calcium ions, the emitted light corresponds to wavelengths in the orange-red region of the visible spectrum, which is why the flame appears bright orange.
This process is known as atomic emission, and it occurs because each element has a unique electron configuration. The difference in energy levels determines the color of light emitted, which allows scientists to identify elements using the flame test.
Why Not the Other Options?
- Electrons are raised to higher energy levels by the heat of the flame → This is part of the process, but it does not explain the appearance of color. The emission of light occurs when electrons return to lower energy levels.
- Oxidation takes place → While oxidation might occur in some reactions, it is not responsible for the color emission in a flame test.
- Electrons in the highest levels are repelling each other → Electron repulsion exists, but it does not cause the observed flame color. The flame color is due to electron transitions between energy levels.
Now, I will generate an image of the flame test showing the bright orange flame produced by calcium chloride.
Here is the generated image depicting the flame test of calcium chloride (CaCl₂), showing the characteristic bright orange flame. Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!