Question

Why nitric and sulphuric acids not used in flame test?

Answer 1

H2SO4 and HNO3 is not used because the sulphate and nitrate salts are less volatile and even decompose on the flame giving oxide which less ionisable.

Answer 2

Nitric and sulphuric acids are not used in flame test because they are highly oxidizing acid.

• Therefore, after the active metal is dipped in any of the two acids, it converts into water.

• Nascent hydrogen (which after burning and imparts the color to the flame) will not be observed.

• In a flame test, HCl is strongly preferred. It imparts a colored flame.

• HCl converts compounds into metallic chlorides and these metallic chlorides are much more volatile.