Final answer:
The primary difference between fluorescent light and backlighting is the direction of light emission. Fluorescent light emits light from the bulb, while backlighting emits light from behind an object or surface.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary difference between fluorescent light and backlighting is the direction of light emission. Fluorescent light emits light in all directions, while backlighting emits light from behind an object, creating a silhouette effect.
Fluorescent light bulbs consist of a coating of phosphor on the inside of the bulb, which emits visible light when excited by ultraviolet light produced by an electric discharge. In contrast, backlighting is commonly used in displays, such as LCD screens, where a light source behind the screen illuminates the pixels, making them visible.
Therefore, the main difference between fluorescent light and backlighting is where the light is emitted from: fluorescent light emits light directly from the bulb, while backlighting emits light from behind an object or surface.