Chapter 1
The chemistry of living light
View / Create
Answer
Chapter 2
Deep-sea hunting and survival strategies
View / Create
Answer
Chapter 3
Defense mechanisms in the dark
View / Create
Answer
Chapter 4
Communication and community in the abyss
View / Create
Answer
YOUR GOAL
Master of Bioluminescence in the deep ocean
Ch 1 · The chemistry of living light
mickeyd These creatures use a tiny chemical reaction to turn oxygen into living light.
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!
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?