Flame Emission Spectroscopy Experiment

Abstract

In this experiment, the emission spectra of two chemical concentrates, Strontium Chloride and Copper Chloride, were analyzed using a PASCO Spectrometer. The concentration of each chemical was varied, and the resulting flame emission spectra were recorded and analyzed. The purpose of this experiment was to study the relationship between the concentration of the chemical and the wavelengths and intensities of the emitted light.

Introduction

Flame emission spectroscopy is a technique used to analyze the emission spectra of elements by heating them in a flame.

Each element emits light at specific wavelengths when it is excited in this manner. By measuring the wavelengths and intensities of this emitted light, we can identify the elements present and determine their concentrations. In this experiment, we focused on Strontium Chloride and Copper Chloride.

Materials and Methods

For this experiment, the following materials and methods were used:

• Chemicals: Strontium Chloride and Copper Chloride
• Equipment: Bunsen burner, matches, torch, PASCO Spectrometer
• Sample Preparation: Three paddle pop sticks for each chemical were soaked in the respective chemical solutions for 24 hours before the experiment.
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• Experimental Setup: Six beakers were used in total, one for each measurement.
• Measurement Parameters: The measurements were recorded in molarity (M) at three different concentrations: 0.2M, 0.5M, and 1M.

This experiment was conducted over three sessions to ensure accuracy.

Results

The measurements of wavelengths (λ) and intensities (I) for both Copper Chloride and Strontium Chloride are presented in the tables below:

Copper Chloride

The average wavelength (λ) for Copper Chloride was found to be approximately 448.

7 nm, with an average intensity (I) of approximately 3.2238.

Strontium Chloride

The average wavelength (λ) for Strontium Chloride was found to be approximately 448.6 nm, with an average intensity (I) of approximately 3.129.

Discussion

The results of this experiment indicate that the concentration of the chemical solutions had an impact on the wavelengths and intensities of the emitted light. As the concentration increased, the average wavelength tended to decrease, while the average intensity tended to increase. This trend was observed for both Copper Chloride and Strontium Chloride.

However, it is important to note that the experiment faced some challenges that may have affected the reliability of the results. The occasional dipping of the paddle pop sticks into the spectrometer's view and the occurrence of paddle pop sticks catching fire could have altered the recorded wavelengths and intensities. To address this issue, new sticks were used, and they were soaked in the chemical solutions for 24 hours before recording to maintain consistency.

Conclusion

This flame emission spectroscopy experiment provided valuable insights into the relationship between the concentration of chemical solutions and the wavelengths and intensities of emitted light. The results suggest that higher concentrations tend to result in shorter wavelengths and higher intensities of emitted light.

Future improvements to this experiment could include conducting measurements in a completely dark room with no light disruptions and using a powerful torch with fresh batteries to ensure a stable and bright flame. Additionally, having more prepared chemical-soaked paddle pop sticks readily available could help in case of failed attempts, leading to a more efficient experiment.