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A
The emission of light by a substance without the generation of significant heat, continuing after the excitation source has been removed.
— Physics reference
B
In marine biology, famously displayed by bioluminescent plankton such as Noctiluca scintillans, which glow blue-green when disturbed at night.
— Marine biology texts
C
Distinct from fluorescence, which only emits light while the excitation source is active — phosphorescence persists after the light source is gone.
— Optical physics
D
The word derives from Phosphorus, the Greek name for the planet Venus when seen as the morning star, itself meaning 'light-bearer'.
— Etymology reference
E
Charles Darwin observed phosphorescent seas during his voyage on the Beagle and described the experience at length in a letter to his sister Caroline in 1832.
— Darwin Correspondence Project