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The sun produces a (nearly) continuous spectrum (gaseous elements in the Sun's atmosphere absorb certain frequencies, making it not quite truly continuous) because it's emitting light due mainly to its temperature. This kind of radiation is called "black body" or "cavity" radiation, and it's a continuous spectrum.

Fluorescent lights produce light by a phenomenon known as (hold on for the shocking revelation) fluorescence. This kind of radiation is related to transitions between specific electron energy levels, and therefore consists of discrete lines. In old or cheap fluorescent tubes, there might be only a couple of lines. Most modern ones use a mixture of phosphors that emit light at different frequencies, so you might see half a dozen or more lines in the spectrum.

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Are neon lights similar to fluorescent lights except that the electron and gas collisions give off visible light?

Yes, neon lights and fluorescent lights both create light through excited gas molecules emitting photons. However, neon lights use neon gas, whereas fluorescent lights use mercury vapor and phosphor coating to produce a wider spectrum of colors.


Is flouresent lighting bad for plants?

Fluorescent lighting can be beneficial for plants, especially for indoor gardening, as it provides a spectrum of light that supports photosynthesis. However, not all fluorescent lights are equally effective; full-spectrum or grow lights are preferred for optimal plant growth. While they do generate some heat, fluorescent lights generally produce less heat than incandescent bulbs, reducing the risk of overheating plants. Care should be taken to position the lights at the right distance to avoid light stress or inadequate illumination.


Do fluo rescent lights contain mercury?

Yes, fluorescent lights contain a small amount of mercury vapor to produce light. It is important to dispose of fluorescent lights properly to prevent environmental contamination.


What light is better a fluorescent light or incandescent light to grow a plant?

Definitely fluorescent. Incandescent lights are extremely inefficient and spend most of their energy producing heat rather than light. This is why an incandescent lightbulb gets so much hotter than a fluorescent one.


What are cfl lights?

CFL lights are compact fluorescent lights that use a fluorescent tube to produce light. They are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and last longer. CFL lights are a popular choice for residential and commercial lighting.

Related Questions

What is the spectrum of fluorescent lights and how does it affect the quality of light emitted?

Fluorescent lights emit a spectrum of light that includes a range of colors. The quality of light emitted by fluorescent lights can be affected by the specific mix of colors in the spectrum. This can impact how natural or artificial the light appears, as well as how well it renders colors in a space.


Are neon lights similar to fluorescent lights except that the electron and gas collisions give off visible light?

Yes, neon lights and fluorescent lights both create light through excited gas molecules emitting photons. However, neon lights use neon gas, whereas fluorescent lights use mercury vapor and phosphor coating to produce a wider spectrum of colors.


Do plants grow under fluorescent lights?

Yes, plants can grow under fluorescent lights because they provide the necessary light spectrum for photosynthesis to occur.


What are the benefits of using a LED fluorescent light compared to traditional fluorescent lights?

LED fluorescent lights are more energy-efficient, have a longer lifespan, and produce less heat compared to traditional fluorescent lights.


What are the differences between fluorescent light and incandescent light?

Fluorescent lights use gas and electricity to produce light, while incandescent lights use a filament that heats up to produce light. Fluorescent lights are more energy-efficient and last longer than incandescent lights.


Is flouresent lighting bad for plants?

Fluorescent lighting can be beneficial for plants, especially for indoor gardening, as it provides a spectrum of light that supports photosynthesis. However, not all fluorescent lights are equally effective; full-spectrum or grow lights are preferred for optimal plant growth. While they do generate some heat, fluorescent lights generally produce less heat than incandescent bulbs, reducing the risk of overheating plants. Care should be taken to position the lights at the right distance to avoid light stress or inadequate illumination.


Can plants grow under fluorescent lights?

Yes, plants can grow under fluorescent lights because they provide the necessary light spectrum for photosynthesis, which is essential for plant growth.


Are office fluorescent lights good for plants?

No, office fluorescent lights are not ideal for plants because they do not provide the full spectrum of light that plants need for photosynthesis. Plants require a specific balance of red and blue light, which is not typically provided by standard fluorescent lights.


What are the benefits of using LED fluorescent lights over traditional fluorescent lights?

LED fluorescent lights are more energy-efficient, longer-lasting, and environmentally friendly compared to traditional fluorescent lights. They also produce less heat and contain no harmful chemicals like mercury.


What are the differences between fluorescent light and incandescent light sources?

Fluorescent lights use gas and phosphor coating to produce light, while incandescent lights use a filament that heats up to produce light. Fluorescent lights are more energy-efficient and last longer than incandescent lights, but incandescent lights have a warmer color temperature.


Do fluorescent lights produce heat?

Yes, fluorescent lights produce some heat when they are on, but significantly less compared to incandescent bulbs. The majority of the energy consumed by fluorescent lights is converted into visible light, making them more energy-efficient.


What are the differences between incandescent and fluorescent lights in terms of energy efficiency and brightness?

Incandescent lights are less energy efficient than fluorescent lights because they produce more heat than light. Fluorescent lights are brighter and use less energy because they produce light through a chemical reaction rather than heat.