What is it? Fluorescence is the giving off of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation of a different wavelength. In most cases, light that is given off has a longer wavelength, and therefore lower energy, than the absorbed radiation. However, shorter wave lengths are also possible with enough activity between the particles. Fluorescent minerals emit visible light when exposed to ultraviolet light

Fluorescence How does it work?

Fluorescence Fluorescent lights. In a fluorescent light there are two electrical circuits on each end of the light along with pins These electrodes cause the mercury vapor to emit ultraviolet light The UV light bounces off the fluorescent material coating the inside of the glass therefore producing visible light.

Fluorescence Where they are used? Fluorescence are used in fluorescent lights, detergent in you home, and in highlighter pens at school or the office. How are they used? Many detergent companies add fluorescence to the their detergents to make it glow slightly. As it is washed in fluorescence it absorbs UV light and emits visible light. Your eyes detect both so the shirt looks brighter. Highlighter pens contain the same thing. The ink contains fluorescence dye so it appears brighter.

Fluorescence Applications – Fluorescent lights are the most common applications of fluorescence. Fluorescent lights uses electric discharge and fluorescence. When the light is turned on, the electric current causes a the mercury atoms to emit ultraviolet light. When the ultraviolet light hits the fluorescence it produces visible light.

Photo examples There are certain minerals that react with ultra violet light to produce fluorescence. For example the rock above is a fluorite mineral, that is were the process of fluorescence got its name.

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