Introduction

The history behind fluorescent lighting (which ultimately 
led to the understanding and invention of black lights) dates 
back to the mid 1800s when British physicist and mathematician 
George Stokes began his study pertaining to this light emitting 
phenomenon.  In 1852 Stokes was credited with the discovery 
proving that within certain substances fluorescence could be 
induced by stimulation with ultraviolet light.  Later he formulated 
a theory of great magnitude that would become influential 
in both his understanding of the subject matter, and future 
understandings as well.  Stokes' law, as it is known, states that 
in fluorescent light the wavelengths are greater than that of 
exciting radiation.  

In the links provided one can find information pertaining 
to fluorescent lighting, and in particular, black lights.  
Likewise, provided are examples that would allow one to gain a 
greater understanding of the ways in which fluorescent lighting and 
black lights can have, and have had, beneficial impacts within 
our society.  

While the technicalities described go into great detail to 
provide a comprehensive explanation of the specifics behind this 
science (which may be somewhat confusing), one should pay particular 
attention to key terms and ideas that relate specifically 
to the discipline of physics.  Simplify if you will! As a complete 
understanding of the science behind black lights and fluorescent 
lighting may be a difficult concept to initially grasp, although 
we’ll try to help you with that, an understanding can be made easier 
if looked upon with the mindset that fluorescence is nothing more 
than a system of smaller and more easily understood concepts.  If 
some of the specifics that relate more directly chemistry are 
temporarily ignored, fluorescent lighting and black lights can be 
broken down into nothing more than simplified ideas of visible light 
and wavelengths, magnetism (as it can be found in the engineering of 
certain fluorescent lights), and the conservation and transformation 
of both matter and energy.


*Introduction*|Physics of Blacklights|Question 1|Question 2|Links|Conclusion|Works Cited|People