In this deck, you'll learn some fundamental techniques used in chemical analysis. We'll cover the standard laboratory tests to identify four common gases: hydrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and chlorine. Then, we'll look at how to use flame tests to identify different metal ions by the unique colours they produce in a flame.

When chemical reactions happen, they often produce gases. To figure out what reaction has occurred, chemists need to identify these gases. There are simple, reliable tests for the most common ones you'll encounter at GCSE.

First, let's look at hydrogen. Hydrogen is a very reactive gas and is highly flammable. The test for hydrogen uses this property. You place a lit splint into the test tube containing the gas. If hydrogen is present, it will burn with a distinctive 'squeaky pop' sound.

Next is oxygen. Oxygen isn't flammable itself, but it is essential for combustion, or burning. The test for oxygen uses this fact. You take a splint that is glowing, but not on fire, and place it into the test tube of gas. If oxygen is present, the glowing splint will relight.