What makes glow-in-the-dark stars glow?
Glow-in-the-dark stars are a fun toy for children because they remain glowing in a seemingly magical fashion. The technology behind glow-in-the-dark toys extends to many other day-to-day items.Glow-in-the-dark StarsGlow-in-the-dark stars are toys in the shape of a star that remain dimly lit even after nearby light sources are extinguished. Most are backed with a sticky substance that allows them to cling to walls, ceilings or even clothing.Light GenerationGlow-in-the-dark stars do not generate their own light, but absorb light around them and emit it later.PhosphorsPhosphors are the chemical substances within glow-in-the-dark stars that make them glow. Phosphors are also used in television screens, computer monitors and fluorescent light bulbs.CompositionAn effective glow-in-the-dark star must contain a phosphor that reacts to normal light and can maintain this reaction for a period of time. Zinc sulfide and strontium aluminate are two phosphors that have these characteristics.PhysicsI
