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Chemistry Lesson
Atoms are considered the smallest components of anything or any being. Each has a nucleus that contains neutrally charged neutrons and positively charged protons. Orbiting the nucleus are negatively charged electrons. When an electron is at its lowest state of energy, it is known to be in its ground state. During chemiluminescence, the electrons of one chemical react to the electrons of another. When the chemicals are combined, the electrons of both become temporarily energized beyond the atom's capacity. This is known as an excited state.
Light Without Heat
Energy is released during the excited state of a chemical reaction. If the reaction were complete at this point, it would result in heat being released as the by-product of the union of the two chemicals. But, this is not the case in chemiluminescence. The cycle continues. To simplify the explanation, the released energy is channeled back through from which it came and the electrons return to their ground state, discharging visible light, not heat. The light emission varies in length and intensity, and may have color.
Glowing Organisms
When a chemiluminescent reaction happens within a living organism, it is termed bioluminescence. Many types of land, air and marine creatures produce light. Fireflies light up their tails to attract mates and protect against predators. There are some species of fireflies, however, that are genetically incapable of producing the chemical necessary for bioluminescence to occur. Adaptation has lead these non-producers to cannibalism as a means of obtaining the chemical. The non-producer lures the producer firefly species by replicating the target's mating signal, then ingesting it's chemical-producing victim.
Home Experiments
Creating your own test-tube glow stick can be as simple as following a recipe. Many safe science experiments producing inorganic chemiluminescence can be obtained for free online or from a science instructor. Recipes include readily accessible ingredients, usually items found around the home. Bleach and peroxide are both additives that bond easily to create a reaction and glow with a bright blue color. Taking safety precautions when working with chemicals is a wise choice. Wearing safety goggles, a face mask and rubber gloves are good recommendations.