1 Answer
The principle behind the sodium test (often used in qualitative analysis or flame tests) is based on the emission of light when sodium ions are heated.
Here’s how it works:
The sodium test is simple and widely used to detect sodium ions in a substance based on this unique yellow flame color.
Here’s how it works:
- Excitation of Electrons: When a sample containing sodium (Na) is introduced into a flame, the heat energy from the flame excites the sodium atoms, causing their electrons to move to higher energy levels (excited state).
- Relaxation and Light Emission: After excitation, the sodium atoms' electrons fall back to their original (ground) state. As they do so, they release energy in the form of visible light.
- Characteristic Yellow Flame: The energy released corresponds to a specific wavelength of light, which, in the case of sodium, is typically a bright yellow color (wavelength of around 589 nm). This characteristic yellow flame is used as an indicator that sodium is present in the sample.
The sodium test is simple and widely used to detect sodium ions in a substance based on this unique yellow flame color.