Identifying ions – practical videos | 14–16 students

Row of test tubes, each labelled with a different metal ion, containing wooden splints

Source: © Royal Society of Chemistry

Video resource showing how to identify ions in various solutions. Flame tests, sodium hydroxide test (microscale) and tests for negative ions: carbonate, sulfate and halide ions

Identifying ions is a key practical skill for GCSE and equivalent 14-16 courses. Learn how to conduct flame tests and chemical tests to identify the ions in various salt solutions. Additional resources including pause-and-think questions with answers, teacher notes, technician notes, integrated instructions, intended outcomes, follow-up worksheet, and structure strips are provided to support your teaching.

Chapter titles: 00:10 Introduction; 01:12 Flame tests for metal ions; 04:38 Metal hydroxide precipitate test; 07:56 Testing for negative ions; 11:54 Unknown substances.

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