
Phosphorus, from the Greek meaning "light-bringer," is an element commonly used in light bulbs. However, it should not be confused with "phosphors," which is instead any substance that exhibits luminescence. Phosphorus, though, is a phosphor and does exhibit this luminescence.
Fluorescent Light
Sometimes, the phosphor coating on the inside of fluorescent lights includes phosphorus in the metallic salt lining the inside of the light bulb. These coatings produce light by having particles of radiation hit the coating from the inside of the tube, causing them to fluoresce.
LED Technology
Blue phosphorus is the most commonly used type of light-emitting diode (LED). To produce white light (as an alternative to fluorescent light), blue phosphorus LEDs are used with energized yellow phosphorus.
Danger
There is a lot of speculation that phosphorus is dangerous because it can cause adverse reactions such as kidney damage and osteoporosis if encountered too often. The phosphorus commonly used in these materials either reacts with oxygen quickly or is otherwise rendered inert, making them effectively harmless to humans.
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About the Author
John Mack Freeman began work in 2009 as a freelance writer with a focus on articles in health and wellness and contemporary arts and entertainment. He has been published through various websites, specializing in health care and craft-related topics. Freeman earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from Shorter College.
Photo Credits
fluorescent lamp image by Valentin Mosichev from Fotolia.com