Basically, a phosphorescent material is “charged” by exposing it to light. The material absorbs light and releases the stored energy slowly and at a longer wavelength than the original light.

What is phosphorescent material used for?

Phosphorescent materials are used where a persistent light is needed, such as glow-in-the-dark watch faces and aircraft instruments, and in radar screens to allow the target 'blips' to remain visible as the radar beam rotates.

What is fluorescent and phosphorescent material?

Fluorescence is the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation. ... Phosphorescence is a specific type of photoluminescence related to fluorescence. Unlike fluorescence, a phosphorescent material does not immediately re-emit the radiation it absorbs.