UVfluoreksenssi

UVfluoreksenssi, also known as fluorescence under ultraviolet light, is a phenomenon where certain substances absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation and then re-emit it as visible light. This re-emission occurs at a longer wavelength than the absorbed UV light, causing the substance to glow. The intensity and color of the fluorescence depend on the specific chemical composition of the material.

This property is utilized in various fields. In forensic science, UVfluoreksenssi can help detect fingerprints, bodily fluids, and certain types of fibers that are not visible under normal light. In the art world, it's used to authenticate paintings by revealing hidden layers, repairs, or distinguishing between genuine and forged pigments. In geology, some minerals exhibit fluorescence, aiding in their identification and study.

Everyday applications include security features on banknotes and passports, where special inks are used that only become visible under UV light, preventing counterfeiting. Fluorescent dyes are also added to detergents to make clothes appear brighter and whiter. In biological research, fluorescent labels are crucial for visualizing cells, proteins, and other microscopic structures, allowing scientists to track processes and interactions within living organisms. The principle relies on the excitation of electrons within the molecule by UV light, which then return to their ground state by emitting photons of visible light.