Filament is a slender piece of wire that is heated to produce light. It is typically made of tungsten, a metallic substance that can withstand high temperatures. When an electric current passes through the filament, it gets heated up, and because of the high temperature, it emits light.
Filament is an integral part of incandescent light bulbs, which have been around for over a century. In the early days, incandescent bulbs had carbon filament, which was less efficient and had a shorter lifespan. But in 1910, tungsten filament was introduced, which revolutionized the lighting industry. Tungsten filament was more durable, longer-lasting, and emitted brighter light than carbon filament.
Over the years, the technology of filament has evolved, and today, we have various types of filaments that are used in different lighting applications. For instance, halogen bulbs have a quartz envelope that is filled with halogen gas and a tungsten filament. These bulbs emit a brighter light than incandescent bulbs, and they last longer. Similarly, fluorescent bulbs have a filament made of mercury vapor that produces ultraviolet light, which is then converted into visible light through a phosphorescent coating.
The development of LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology has further revolutionized the lighting industry. LEDs don’t have a filament; instead, they have a semiconductor that emits light when an electric current passes through it. LEDs are more energy-efficient, last longer, and emit brighter light than traditional incandescent bulbs.
In conclusion, filament is an essential part of our lives, illuminating our homes, streets, and workplaces with light. The technology of filament has come a long way, and today, we have various types of filaments that cater to different lighting needs. From incandescent bulbs to LEDs, filament has played a crucial role in shaping the lighting industry and improving the quality of our lives.