Physics - key terms

Bioluminescence

The production and emission of light by living organisms as a result of a chemical reaction.

Fluorescence

The emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation.

EM spectrum

The range of all possible frequencies of electromagnetic radiation.

Microwaves

Electromagnetic waves with wavelengths ranging from one meter to one millimeter, used for communication, cooking, and other applications.

Visible light

Electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye, typically with wavelengths between 400 and 700 nanometers.

Infrared

Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths longer than those of visible light, but shorter than microwaves, used in thermal imaging and communication.

Incandescence

The emission of light by a heated object, such as a light bulb filament.

Neon light

A type of lighting that uses neon gas to produce a colored glow.

Phosphorescent

The emission of light by a substance after exposure to light or other radiation has ceased.

Chemiluminescence

The emission of light as a result of a chemical reaction, often used in glow sticks and certain biological processes.

Triboluminescence

The emission of light when a material is scratched, crushed, or rubbed.

Luminous

Emitting or reflecting light.

Non-luminous

Not emitting or reflecting light.