When conducting a flame test with a Bunsen burner, students should follow these safety precautions to prevent injuries:
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Wear Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Students should always wear safety goggles to protect their eyes from splashes and bright flames. Additionally, they should don lab coats or aprons and gloves to protect their skin and clothing from heat and chemicals.
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Maintain a Safe Working Area: Students should ensure that the workspace is free from clutter and flammable materials. All bags, papers, and chemicals unrelated to the experiment should be kept away from the flame.
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Use Proper Techniques for Lighting the Bunsen Burner: Students should follow the correct procedure for lighting the Bunsen burner, such as using a striker rather than matches or a lighter. They should also make sure that the burner is stable and securely placed on a heat-resistant surface, and that they have control of the gas valve before igniting the flame.
By adhering to these precautions, students can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries during their experiment.