fluorescent
Definition
Fluorescence is a phenomenon in which certain materials emit light when they are exposed to light of a different wavelength. This is because the atoms in the material absorb the light of one wavelength and then emit light of a different wavelength.
The wavelength of light that is emitted by a fluorescent material is determined by the energy levels of the atoms in the material. When the material absorbs light, the electrons in the atoms are excited to a higher energy level. When the electrons fall back to their ground state, they emit light of a specific wavelength.
The amount of light that is emitted by a fluorescent material is also determined by the intensity of the light that is absorbed. The brighter the light that is absorbed, the brighter the light that is emitted.
Fluorescence is a very useful phenomenon. It is used in many different products, such as light bulbs, highlighters, and exit signs. It is also used in some medical devices, such as black lights.
How can the word be used?
The fluorescent tubes in the office were all burned out.
Different forms of the word
Noun: fluorescent, fluorescence.
Adjective: fluorescent.
Verb: fluoresce, fluoresced, fluorescing.
Etymology
The word "fluorescent" is derived from the Latin word fluorescere, which means "to glow". The Latin word fluorescere is made up of the word fluo, which means "to flow", and the verb escere, which means "to become".
Question
When might you wear something fluorescent?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of fluorescence and how it differs from other forms of luminescence. Describe the process of fluorescence in terms of energy absorption and emission of light. Provide real-life examples of fluorescent materials and their applications in scientific research and everyday life.
Answer:
Fluorescence is a specific form of luminescence exhibited by certain materials. Unlike incandescence, which is the emission of light due to high temperatures, fluorescence occurs when a material absorbs light of a particular wavelength and then re-emits light at a longer wavelength. The process involves the absorption of photons, which elevates electrons to higher energy states, followed by their subsequent relaxation to lower energy states, emitting light in the process.
Real-life examples of fluorescent materials include fluorescent dyes used in biological research to label specific molecules or cells, fluorescent markers in highlighters and glow-in-the-dark objects, and fluorescent pigments in paints and textiles. In scientific research, fluorescence microscopy is widely used to visualise cellular structures and study molecular interactions. In everyday life, fluorescent materials find applications in art, security features, and environmental monitoring.