Fluorescent materials are substances that can absorb light or other electromagnetic radiation and then re-emit it at a longer wavelength. This process occurs almost instantaneously, allowing these materials to glow brightly when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Common examples of fluorescent materials include certain dyes, minerals, and even some biological substances like jellyfish proteins. These materials are widely used in various applications, such as in fluorescent lamps, which convert electrical energy into visible light, and in fluorescent markers for writing and highlighting. They are also important in scientific research, where they help visualize structures in cell biology through techniques like fluorescence microscopy.