Why does the cation of a salt affect the color of the flame produced when put under a Bunson Burner?

Question

Why does the cation of a salt affect the color of the flame produced when put under a Bunson Burner?

I am writing a lab report over this question. I have already conducted the experiment, so I already know that the cation is responsible for the color of the flame, but I cannot explain why. So if you have any clue, I'd like to hear what you have to say!

Thanks

Answer 1

Because of the energy requiered to burn the cations. Each element has a spectum it emits when burned or excited with energy, and this spectrum is resposible for the colored flame you see in the bunsen burner. That's about as simple as I can make it for you. Hope that helps you out.

Answer 2

You did not explain cations into groups(I to group VI).Every cation element have different propertiesEx.Magnesium,Zinc,Copper release the oxides when heating.chromes are general reason.better,Study your text books.Your question are school level.If you
study more buy Analytical Chemistry,S Chand&Company Publisher,New Delhi.Author,Balasubramaniyan,Santhanam
Why not ask your Master!! always ask your question
in your teacher.It will develop more IQ Power.Good
Question.Chemistry is the very interesting subject..

Answer 3

If you research the topic "Atomic Emission Spectra" you will find out why excited alkali metal ions give out different colours.