flame test

noun

1. a test for detecting the presence of certain metals in compounds by the coloration they give to a flame. Sodium, for example, turns a flame yellow

Example Sentences

In a flame test, the element potassium produces which color?

From Slate

Speaking of sodium, did you know you can do an awesome flame test using stuff you can pick up at the grocery store?

From Scientific American

The bill would allow manufacturers to choose the existing candle-like flame test or a new one based on a smoldering cigarette, a far more common source of fires than candles.

From Chicago Tribune

Another exercise very valuable in giving breath-control is the following: Produce a tone exactly as before, but every now and then, at regular intervals at first, then at irregular ones, cut the tone off short by suddenly arresting the breath, and, after a very short pause, continue again in exactly the same way without taking a fresh breath; and, as in the above and all other exercises, frequently apply the hand and, when more practised, the more exacting flame test.

From Project Gutenberg