Algae produce light, a phenomenon known as bioluminescence, through a chemical reaction involving luciferin, luciferase, and oxygen.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- The Players: The key components are luciferin (a light-emitting molecule), luciferase (an enzyme that catalyzes the reaction), and oxygen.
- The Reaction: When the algae are disturbed (e.g., by waves or movement in the water), oxygen reacts with luciferin.
- Luciferase's Role: Luciferase acts as a catalyst, accelerating the oxidation of luciferin. This process releases energy in the form of light.
- No Heat: Importantly, this light production is efficient, generating light without producing significant heat. This is why it's called "cold light."
In essence, the mechanical disturbance triggers a chemical reaction that results in the emission of light. This bioluminescence serves various ecological functions for the algae.
