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In a flame test, potassium ions (K⁺) are known to produce a lilac color. This phenomenon occurs because when potassium is heated in a flame, its electrons become excited and then release energy as they return to their ground state. The specific wavelength of light emitted during this transition corresponds to the lilac color that is observed.

This characteristic color can be attributed to the unique electronic structure of potassium, which allows it to emit light at particular wavelengths when subjected to thermal energy. The lilac color may sometimes be difficult to distinguish, especially in the presence of sodium, which emits a bright yellow color and can overpower the more subtle lilac hue, but it is still distinctive for potassium.

In contrast, other colors associated with other ions are distinctly different based on their unique electronic transitions. Cyan, green, and red correspond to other metal ions, making them incorrect choices for potassium specifically.