An Investigation of Fluorescence in the Aquatic World

Abstract

Abstract:

Many people are familiar with the cool greenish glow that occurs in the nocturnal crashing of the waves. The cause of this glow is one of three luminescent properties- fluorescence. Fluorescence is the emission of light after it has been absorbed. This light is remitted in a matter of nanoseconds at a lower energy. Scientists are baffled as to why this fluorescence occurs. Some creatures suddenly have this ability to glimmer- is it an adaptation? If so how does this help the creature? Can it be recreated naturally and unnaturally?

The purpose of this study is to answer these questions. Answers have been sought through methods of online research of journals and scholarly sources. Books have been used for their wealth of enlightenment as well. A final method of gathering information is interviewing marine biologists. Their first hand experience provides clarity to the hypothesis: fluorescence is an adaptation.

The importance of this research can give further evidence for evolution, adaptations, and natural selection-touching on mutations as well. It is hoped that the study will educate others of the aquatic worlds, their ways of modifying, and how humans can help conserve them.