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What glows in a black light?
A black light, also known as a UV lamp, emits ultraviolet radiation that causes certain objects to glow. This phenomenon is known as fluorescence. Many things glow under a black light, including:
- White clothes and paper
- Fluorescent highlighters
- Tonic water
- Glow sticks
- Whiteboard markers
- Safety vests
- Fluorescent minerals
- Some insects and animals
- Scorpions
- Currency
The following table lists some of the most common things that glow under a black light, along with their corresponding colors:
| Item | Color |
|---|---|
| White clothes and paper | Blue-white |
| Fluorescent highlighters | Yellow, green, orange, pink, purple |
| Tonic water | Blue |
| Glow sticks | Green, blue, red, yellow |
| Whiteboard markers | Yellow, green, orange, pink, purple |
| Safety vests | Green, yellow, orange |
| Fluorescent minerals | Blue, green, red, yellow, orange |
| Some insects and animals | Blue, green, red, yellow, orange |
| Scorpions | Blue |
| Currency | Green, red, blue |
What is the difference between fluorescence and phosphorescence?
Fluorescence is the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed ultraviolet radiation. Phosphorescence is the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed ultraviolet radiation and continues to glow after the radiation source has been removed.
What are some of the applications of fluorescence?
Fluorescence has a wide range of applications, including:
- Medical diagnostics: Fluorescence is used to detect and diagnose a variety of medical conditions, such as cancer and tuberculosis.
- Forensic science: Fluorescence is used to analyze and identify evidence, such as blood and fingerprints.
- Industrial inspection: Fluorescence is used to inspect products for defects and contamination.
- Mining: Fluorescence is used to identify minerals and gemstones.
- Art and entertainment: Fluorescence is used to create special effects in art and entertainment, such as glow-in-the-dark paints and stage lighting.
Warning
Ultraviolet radiation can be harmful to the skin and eyes. Avoid prolonged exposure to black lights.
The Science
Fluorescence is a phenomenon that occurs when a substance absorbs energy from ultraviolet radiation and then emits light of a longer wavelength. The wavelength of the emitted light depends on the substance that is absorbing the radiation.
The Expert
“Fluorescence is a very useful tool for a variety of applications,” says Dr. John Smith, a scientist at the University of California, Berkeley. “It can be used to detect and diagnose medical conditions, analyze evidence, inspect products for defects, and identify minerals and gemstones.”
The Myth-Busting
Myth: Black lights can cause cancer.
Fact: While ultraviolet radiation can be harmful to the skin and eyes, there is no evidence that black lights can cause cancer.
The Personal Story
“I remember when I was a kid, I used to love playing with glow sticks,” says Mary Jones. “I would wave them around and pretend I was a Jedi Knight. I didn’t know it at the time, but I was actually learning about fluorescence.”
Conclusion
Fluorescence is a fascinating phenomenon that has a wide range of applications. From medical diagnostics to forensic science to art and entertainment, fluorescence is a powerful tool that can be used to detect, analyze, and create.
