Physics Demo Number: 084

Approximate Run Time:

5 min

Phosphorescent Mask

Demo Description

Use a black light to illuminate a mask that "glows-in-the-dark" after the light is removed.

Scientific Principles

  • Fluorescence - glowing in a variety of colors when illuminated by ultraviolet light.

  • Phosphorescence - (delayed fluorescence) continuing to glow in a variety of colors after being illuminated by ultraviolet light.

Equipment & Set Up

  • Phosphorescent mask

  • Black light

Equipment Location

  • Phosphorescent mask in Kit (084) on [C-2-5]

  • Black light on [C-2-5]

Instructions

The photo shows the phosphorescent mask and black light used to show phosphorescence. Of course one may also use a strong white light in place of the black light, to emphasize the difference between phosphorescence and fluorescence.
  
Writeup created by David A. Burba
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