Why flames change color

Why do different elements make different color flames when you burn them? Chemistry Matter Elements. Ernest Z. Apr 16, Explanation: The Bohr model says that electrons exist only at certain allowed energy levels.

When an electron drops from one level to a lower energy level, it emits a quantum of energy. The wavelength colour of the light depends on the difference in the two energy levels. We can see only those transitions that correspond to a visible wavelength. Every element has its own characteristic set of energy levels.

When certain alcohols are ignited, such as methanol and ethanol, the flame will appear to be a pale blue color. The changing of flame color due to temperature is called incandescence, which is how you can be able to tell what materials they are.

If you have a functional fire alarm or sprinkler systems in place, the sensors will detect the fluctuation in room temperature long before you will. Oxygen supply can also adjust the color and strength of fire. If oxygen is in short supply, the fire will be dim and smokey. Not only that, but the color of the flames will be a red color. The more oxygen that is supplied to a flame, the hotter and brighter it will be. When a fire has an ample supply of oxygen, it will show is distinct orange and even white-color.

If you want to put out a fire, you will need to cut off its supply of oxygen. It is important to know the colors of flames so you can determine how hot the flames are in order to put it out. Hotter, blue flames are more difficult to put out that orange or yellow flames. Incandescent color ranges allow you to predict the danger level of a situation, without being too close to the actual flame. This type of information is important to consider if you are faced with a fire hazard.

Each molecule is made up of carbon atoms, shown in dark gray and hydrogen atoms, shown in white. Wick Trick. This is called a chemical reaction. This reaction also makes carbon dioxide and water. Wax Is Not Enough. You also need oxygen. If you cover a flame with a glass cup or jar, the flame uses up the oxygen and goes out. One Hot Reaction!