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The Curious Bag
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Metal halide lighting is a high-intensity light that is more efficient and durable than traditional incandescent lighting. Metal halide is similar to mercury vapor lighting, but metal halide is better at simulating sunlight.
Arc
The arc is the source of the light. It is made of electrical current that vaporizes the metal halides and energizes the metal molecules, which radiate the light.
Electrodes
Electrodes are the terminals that form the arc. The electricity jumps from one electrode to the other to form the arc.
Arc Tube
The arc tube is a small pressurized tube that contains the electrodes, the arc and the metal halides. It is usually made of quartz or ceramic.
Outer Bulb
The outer bulb contains the entire bulb and provides an extra layer of protection in case the arc tube fails and explodes.
Coated Finish
A coated finish on the interior of the outer bulb diffuses the bright light of the arc.
Source:
LightingResearchCenter.org: How Do Metal Halide Lamps Work?
American History.si.edu: The Halide Cycle in a Discharge Lamp
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