This is a list of sources of light, the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Light sources produce photons from another energy source, such as heat, chemical reactions, or conversion of mass or a different frequency of electromagnetic energy, and include light bulbs and stars like the Sun. Reflectors (such as the moon, cat's eyes, and mirrors) do not actually produce the light that comes from them.
Incandescence is the emission of light from a hot body as a result of its temperature.
Main article: Incandescence |
Main article: Combustion |
Main articles: Nuclear physics and Particle physics |
Main article: Astronomical object |
Main article: Luminescence |
Luminescence is emission of light by a substance not resulting from heat.
Main article: Bioluminescence |
Bioluminescence is light resulting from biochemical reaction by a living organism.
Main article: Cathodoluminescence |
Cathodoluminescence is light resulting from a luminescent material being struck by electrons.
Main article: Chemiluminescence |
Chemiluminescence is light resulting from a chemical reaction.
Main article: Cryoluminescence |
Cryoluminescence is the emission of light when an object is cooled.
Main article: Crystalloluminescence |
Crystalloluminescence is light produced during crystallization.
Main article: Electrochemiluminescence |
Electrochemiluminescence is light resulting from an electrochemical reaction.
Main article: Electroluminescence |
Electroluminescence is light resulting from an electric current being passed through a substance.
Main article: Mechanoluminescence |
Mechanoluminescence is light resulting from a mechanical action on a solid.
Main article: Photoluminescence |
Photoluminescence is light resulting from absorption of photons.
Main article: Radioluminescence |
Radioluminescence is light resulting from bombardment by ionizing radiation.
Main article: Thermoluminescence |
Thermoluminescence is light from the re-emission of absorbed energy when a substance is heated.