General operational theory of fluorescence is

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SUMMARY

The general operational theory of fluorescence involves a molecule absorbing a photon, which excites its electrons from the ground state to a higher energy state. As the electrons return to the ground state, they emit electromagnetic waves perceived as light. Factors influencing the efficiency of fluorescence in certain molecules include their electronic structure and the presence of quenching mechanisms, which can inhibit photon emission. Understanding these principles is crucial for applications in fields such as photonics and biochemistry.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photon absorption and emission processes
  • Familiarity with electronic states of molecules
  • Knowledge of quenching mechanisms in fluorescence
  • Basic concepts of electromagnetic waves
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the electronic structures of fluorescent molecules
  • Study the mechanisms of fluorescence quenching
  • Explore applications of fluorescence in photonics
  • Learn about the role of fluorescence in biochemistry and imaging techniques
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in photonics, chemists studying molecular behavior, and biochemists utilizing fluorescence in imaging and analysis will benefit from this discussion.

OnePound
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Hello,

I think the general operational theory of fluorescence is understood - a molecule accepts a photon, its electrons are excited from the ground state to a higher energy state, and, as they return to the ground state, they emit EM waves which we see as light. My question is what makes some molecules or compounds better at doing this than others? Surely all molecules should be able to do this, as all molecules have electrons that can be excited?

Many thanks,
OnePound
 
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As explained in the Wikipedia article on Fluorescence, there are a number of ways in which the atom can deexcite without emitting a photon. See especially Wiki's article on "Quenching (fluorescence)"
 

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