answersLogoWhite

0

The defining characteristic of metals, in a chemical sense, is that they have between one and three valance electrons and they tend to lose electrons, as compared to non metals which have a larger number of valance electrons and are much less prone to losing them. So, when a metal is heated sufficiently, outer electrons get hot enough to leave the atom. Then, electrons are recaptured. In the process of becoming part of an atom again, an electron emits a photon, with a typical wavelength for a given element, thereby creating a characteristic color. As a result of this process, the color of a flame is mainly due to whatever metals are present.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

Why use nitrates for a flame test?

Nitrates are used in flame tests because they serve as a source of metal ions, which impart characteristic colors to the flame when heated. When nitrates are subjected to high temperatures, they decompose, releasing the corresponding metal ions that can be easily observed. This allows for the identification of specific metals based on the distinct colors they produce in the flame. Additionally, nitrates are stable and can be easily handled compared to other compounds.


Do silver ions gain or lose elections in the reduction process of a silver mirror reaction?

Metals almost always gain electrons, it gives metals their positive(+) characteristic.


What is a characteristic of nonmetal a?

One characteristic of non-metals is that they are generally gaseous at room temperature. Non-metals will also typically bond with metals easily.


Can transition metals be identified by their colors in flame tests?

Yes, transition metals can be identified by their unique colors in flame tests. Each transition metal emits a characteristic color when exposed to a flame due to the energy levels of their electrons transitioning. This property is used in qualitative analysis to identify the presence of specific transition metals in a sample.


The characteristic colors of the reactants and the products are caused by the cations or the anions in the compound?

The characteristic colors of compounds are typically caused by the specific arrangement of electrons in the transition metal ions present in the compound. Transition metals exhibit a range of colors due to their ability to absorb certain wavelengths of light. The color observed is a result of the absorbed light that is not transmitted or reflected.


What is one characteristic of a nonmetal?

Metals conduct electricity; non-metals do not.


What are two metals used in fireworks that undergo a chemical change?

Copper and strontium are two metals commonly used in fireworks that undergo a chemical change when they are heated, producing characteristic colors in the process. For example, copper compounds can create blue colors, while strontium compounds can produce red colors when ignited during a fireworks display.


Is strong odor a characteristic of metal?

No the opposite. It is a characteristic of metals that they have very little or no odor.


What are characteristic properties of alkaline earth metals?

they are harder than alkali metals


What are characteristic property of the alkaline earth metals?

they are harder than alkali metals


Is an element a characteristic of metal?

All metals except alloys of metals are elements, but not all elements are metals.


Which group of s-block elements might you find in fireworks?

Alkali metals such as lithium, sodium, and potassium are typically used in fireworks to produce vibrant colors when they are heated due to their ability to emit characteristic light emissions.