Splint (laboratory equipment)

In a high school chemistry class, a typical use would be to show the presence of hydrogen (after electrolysis of water, or by reacting a metal with an acid).

[4] In this test, a splint is lit, allowed to burn for a few seconds, then blown out by mouth or by shaking.

Whilst the ember at the tip is still glowing hot, the splint is introduced to the gas sample that has been trapped in a vessel.

[4] Upon exposure to concentrated oxygen gas, the glowing ember flares, and re-ignites to produce a sustained flame.

This test is not specific for oxygen, but will react similarly for any oxidising gas (such as nitrous oxide) that supports the combustion of the splint.