Chapter EH, Problem 28R

Solution

Interpretation : The element that produces a green flash of color at the beginning of a flame test is to be identified.

Concept Introduction : The chemist uses a flame test, a qualitative analysis, to identify the metal and metalloid ions in the sample. Only a few metal ions that are burned in a gas burner produce color.

The unknown element that produced a green flask of color is boron.

By examining the color of the flame an unknown element can be identified using a flame test.

A green flash of color is seen at the beginning of a flame test.

Only the element boron in group 13 has an initial intense green flare.

Therefore, boron must be the element.