Program

27/09/2024

How Do Fireflies Glow?

 

There are five species of fireflies, which emit a strong, cold light, in Slovenia. Through so-called bioluminescence, they convert chemical energy to light.

17:00-21:30

Fakulteta za farmacijo

Kako svetijo kresničke_anonymous

Humanistika Logo

In a lab, a similar light can be created through chemiluminescence. With our guidance, attendees will perform a chemical reaction in which the fluorophore perylene, a solution of NaOH and, after darkening, 30% H2O2 are added to a solution of a double ester of oxalic acid and vanillin in triacetin. This will create intensive blue light. Then, with the assistance of an AI chatbot, the attendees will explore the mechanism of the reaction and the role of perylene, looking for similar reactions in nature. This will promote the understanding of chemiluminescence and bioluminescence and the critical use of AI. The attendees will be provided with safety goggles for their protection. The activity aims to foster interest in nature and science.

 

 

The event is organized by dr. Janez Mravljak and dr. Stane Pajk (UL FFA).