Hands-On Science: Glow Sticks

Chemiluminesence, the light-emitting properties of many chemicals, has several applications in industrial, commercial, and aesthetic applications. Today in Hands-On Science, students learned the science of glowsticks, and how certain chemical reactions emit visible light as the energy stored in chemical bonds is converted to electromagnetic energy that we perceive as visible light. Similarly, many organisms, including fireflies, use chemiluminesence to attract mates or find food.