Sodium ion (Na+) and calcium ion (Ca2+) produce nearly the same color in a flame test (yellow and yellow-orange, respectively). Describe a way to differentiate between the two using a solution of Na2CO3 and write the correct balanced equation (s).

Sodium ion (Na+) and calcium ion (Ca2+) produce nearly the same color in a flame test. So you'll get 2 equations:

1) N a2 C O3 + 2N a + → N a2 C O3 + 2N a+. It's referred to Na+

2) C a 2 + + N a2 C O3 →CaC O3 + 2Na. It's to Ca2+.

Hope, you'll find it useful.