The Chemistry of How Glow in the Dark Toys Work

SciShow host Hank Green explains the chemistry behind how glow in the dark toys work. The chemicals at play in the toys are called phosphors, and they emit light after absorbing energy from another source like the Sun or a lamp.

Did you play with glow in the dark toys as a kid? They’re super cool, but kind of mysterious. How do they glow after all? Hank explains the phenomenon in this quick question.

Glen Tickle
Glen Tickle

Amelia's dad. Steph's husband. Writer, comedian, gentleman. Good at juggling, bad at chess.