What color flame does sodium produce during a flame test?

During a flame test, sodium ions produce a bright yellow flame. This phenomenon occurs because when sodium ions are heated in a flame, they absorb energy and become excited. As the ions return to their ground state, they release energy in the form of light. The specific wavelengths of light emitted correspond to a yellow color, which is characteristic of sodium.

This yellow flame can be quite intense and is typically distinct, making it a reliable indicator for the presence of sodium in a compound. Recognizing the yellow flame associated with sodium is important in analytical chemistry for identifying and confirming the presence of this alkali metal in various samples. Other elements produce different flame colors due to their unique electron configurations and energy transitions.