While creating a true black light requires specialized bulbs that emit ultraviolet (UV) light, you can simulate a black light effect using a simple DIY hack with a smartphone.
This method involves using layers of tape and a blue marker to filter the light from your phone's LED flash, blocking most visible light and allowing some violet/UV light to pass through. This filtered light can cause certain fluorescent materials to glow.
Based on the provided information, here are the initial steps for creating a black light effect using your smartphone:
Materials You'll Need
- Smartphone with a working LED flash.
- Clear Tape
- Blue Marker
Step-by-Step Instructions (Based on Reference)
Follow these steps to begin turning your phone's flashlight into a makeshift black light:
- Rip off a small piece of tape (fold some of it over to make a tab for easy clean up later) and place the piece of tape over the camera light on the phone.
- With the blue marker, color the portion of tape over the light.
- Place another piece of tape over the first.
Note: The provided reference indicates there are additional steps needed to complete this process, which are not included in the snippet.
By following these steps, you begin the process of creating a filter over your phone's light source. The combination of tape layers and blue ink helps to absorb the visible light spectrum emitted by the LED flash, allowing only the faint violet/UV light to pass through, which is what causes fluorescent objects to glow in the dark.
