Case Studies - Compounds

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1. Zinc Entertains

   Despite its many essential uses, sometimes zinc is used purely for entertainment. Have you ever wondered how things glow in the dark? All glow-in-the-dark products contain phosphors. A phosphor is a substance that radiates visible light after being energized. To make a glow-in-the-dark object, you want a phosphor that is energized by normal light and that has a very long persistence. Zinc sulfide has these properties and is used to create everything from luminescent watch dials to glow-in-the-dark toys. Zinc’s phosphorescent properties have also made it a key ingredient in X-ray and TV screens, fluorescent lights and light emitting diodes. Fireworks often make use of zinc dust to create bright, shimmering sparks. The zinc metal flakes heat up until they are incandescent and shine brightly or, at a high enough temperature, actually burn. A variety of chemicals can be added to create the brilliant colors, but it is the zinc that sparkles.

   Posted on Thursday, March 17, 2011

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