Why do different metals produce flames of different colours?

spubbophoks8pn

spubbophoks8pn

Answered question

2023-01-27

Why do different metals produce flames of different colours?

Answer & Explanation

skarper3

skarper3

Beginner2023-01-28Added 4 answers

Because the permitted energy levels for electrons in various elements vary, so do the colors of their flames. According to the Bohr model, electrons can only exist at a limited range of permitted energies. Some of an atom's electrons are "excited*" to higher energy levels when it is heated. An electron releases a quantum of energy as it transitions from one level to a lower energy level. The difference between the two energy levels determines the wavelength (color) of the light. Only transitions that match a visible wavelength are visible to us.

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