Jumping electrons= Fireworks

The incredible science of fireworks... the phenomenal colours come from the metal salts they contain. When the metal salts are put in a flame, the electrons in the metal ions absorb the heat energy and are pushed to higher energy levels. When the electrons drop back to lower energy levels they release energy in the form of light. Different metal atoms release different wavelengths (colours):- Red from strontium salts, orange from calcium salts and yellow from sodium salts. Not just for school science labs; you can have a go at flame tests at home by putting salt substitute (potassium chloride) into a gas flame and you should see a gorgeous violet flame. #scienceiscool #chemistry #womeninscience