Daily Current Affairs : 4-August-2023
Lighting is an integral part of our daily lives, and over the years, there have been significant advancements in lighting technology. One such technology that revolutionized indoor illumination was the incandescent light bulb. However, with the growing concern for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, the United States made a significant move by banning incandescent light bulbs that do not meet certain efficiency standards. In this essay, we will delve into the history of incandescent light bulbs, how they work, and the issues associated with them.
History: The Bright Idea
The invention of the incandescent light bulb is often attributed to Thomas Edison in 1889. However, it’s important to note that there were several inventors who contributed to the development of this technology. Even before Edison’s breakthrough, various individuals had created components and prototypes of light bulbs. Notably, British physicist Joseph Wilson Swan obtained the first patent for a complete incandescent light bulb with a carbon filament in 1879, preceding Edison’s patent. This underscores the collaborative nature of technological progress.
The Mechanics of Illumination
The incandescent light bulb operates on a simple yet ingenious principle. It comprises a glass enclosure containing a tungsten filament. When an electric current passes through the filament, it heats up to a temperature that causes it to emit light. To ensure proper functioning, the bulb typically includes a stem or glass mount attached to the base. This design allows electrical contacts to pass through the envelope without any gas or air leaks. Furthermore, small wires embedded in the stem provide support for the filament and its lead wires. The enclosing glass enclosure is either filled with a vacuum or an inert gas, serving to preserve and protect the filament from evaporating due to high temperatures.
Efficiency and Environmental Concerns
While incandescent light bulbs played a crucial role in lighting homes and businesses for decades, they come with a set of drawbacks that cannot be ignored:
- Low Efficacy and Quality of Light: Incandescent bulbs have low luminous efficacy, producing only about 15 lumens per watt. This means they are inefficient in converting electricity into visible light, resulting in higher energy consumption.
- Short Lifespan: The lifespan of incandescent bulbs is relatively short compared to newer lighting technologies. This frequent replacement contributes to higher maintenance costs.
- High Costs: Due to their inefficiency, incandescent bulbs lead to higher electricity bills over time, making them more expensive for consumers in the long run.
- Sensitivity to External Shocks: The delicate filament inside incandescent bulbs makes them susceptible to damage from vibrations and shocks, leading to premature failure.
- Environmental Impact: Incandescent bulbs are energy-intensive and emit a significant amount of heat, contributing to higher greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with the growing global concern for environmental sustainability.
Important Points:
History: The Bright Idea
- Thomas Edison is commonly credited with inventing the incandescent light bulb in 1889.
- Other inventors also contributed to light bulb development before Edison, including Joseph Wilson Swan.
- Swan received the first patent for a complete incandescent bulb with a carbon filament in 1879.
The Mechanics of Illumination
- Incandescent bulbs contain a tungsten filament within a glass enclosure.
- Electric current heats the filament, causing it to emit light.
- A stem or glass mount attaches to the bulb’s base, allowing electrical contacts to pass through without leaks.
- Small wires embedded in the stem support the filament.
- The enclosure is filled with vacuum or inert gas to protect the filament.
Efficiency and Environmental Concerns
- Incandescent bulbs have low luminous efficacy, around 15 lumens per watt.
- Short lifespan and frequent replacements contribute to higher maintenance costs.
- Inefficiency leads to higher electricity bills over time.
- Sensitivity to shocks and vibrations affects bulb durability.
- Incandescent bulbs are energy-intensive, emitting heat and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Why In News
The United States has officially prohibited the use of incandescent light bulbs, mandating a minimum requirement of 45 lumens per watt for all lighting products. This decision comes as a stark contrast to the outdated incandescent bulbs, which fall significantly short with their meager output of just 15 lumens per watt. As a result, this move toward energy-efficient lighting marks a significant step in reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainability nationwide.
MCQs about Incandescent Light Bulbs
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What is the purpose of the stem or glass mount in an incandescent light bulb?
A. It houses the filament.
B. It supports the tungsten filament.
C. It allows for electrical contacts without leaks.
D. It emits light.
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What is a major drawback of incandescent light bulbs in terms of energy efficiency?
A. They emit harmful radiation.
B. They produce too much heat.
C. They have a short lifespan.
D. They have low luminous efficacy.
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Why did the United States ban inefficient incandescent light bulbs?
A. Due to their sensitivity to external shocks.
B. To reduce the production of heat.
C. To promote historical significance.
D. For energy efficiency and environmental concerns.
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