Chapter 1
The chemistry of living light
Chapter 2
Deep-sea hunting and survival strategies
Chapter 3
Defense mechanisms in the dark
Chapter 4
Communication and community in the abyss
YOUR GOAL
Master of Bioluminescence in the deep ocean
Ch 1 · The chemistry of living light
mickeyd Explore the science of bioluminescence. See how glowing creatures use chemical reactions to turn oxygen into living light in these stunning images.
artiteacher The chemistry of living light
Hey there, did you know, deep under the blue, oh-oh, Light can be made, cool and anew, yeah! It's a chemical dance, no heat to burn, oh-oh, Cold light shining, lessons we learn!
artiteacher Most marine bioluminescence is blue or green because these wavelengths travel the furthest through seawater.
artiteacher Unlike human-made lightbulbs, bioluminescent organisms produce cold light, which wastes virtually no energy as heat.
BETA
artiteacher Mix glowing compounds to discover how deep-sea creatures make their own light.
Fun Fact
Cold light efficiency: Bioluminescent creatures convert nearly 100 percent of their chemical energy into light, leaving virtually zero waste heat.
Glossary
luciferin (noun)
An organic compound that emits light when oxidized in the presence of a specific enzyme. In 1887, French physiologist Raphaël Dubois first extracted this substance, which enables marine organisms to glow.
An organic compound that emits light when oxidized in the presence of a specific enzyme. In 1887, French physiologist Raphaël Dubois first extracted this substance, which enables marine organisms to glow.
Quiz
Which enzyme acts as a biological helper to speed up the bioluminescent reaction?
Quiz
According to research, what percentage of midwater ocean animals are estimated to be bioluminescent?
Quiz
Which gas is absolutely necessary for the chemical reaction of bioluminescence to occur in most animals?
Quiz
Which color of light is physically able to travel the farthest through ocean water?
Quiz
What is the name of the specialized light-producing organs found on many deep-sea animals?
Quiz
How long ago did the oldest known animal bioluminescence evolve in ancient soft corals?
Quiz
What molecule is the chemical fuel oxidized to produce light in bioluminescent organisms?