Properties and Applications of Argon Lamps

Argon lamps are gas discharge lamps that contain argon gas at a low pressure, enveloped in a glass capsule. Gas discharge lamps emit light when electric light is passed through the gas.

Argon lamps contain either argon gas, or a mixture of argon and mercury vapor. They were discovered in the year 1917 by Daniel Moore. This article will provide details on the working, construction, and applications of argon lamps.

Working Principle and Spectral Output

Gases are not good electric conductors at atmospheric pressure. A special tube, called the gas discharge tube, is used for maintaining a low pressure for the gas. When electric current is applied between the two electrodes of the discharge tube, and a suitable pressure is reached, the gas starts to glow. Different gases emit different colors.

The argon lamp emits light of a wavelength that lies in the visible region of the spectrum. Argon lamps emit a distinctive blue glow.

Construction

An argon lamp is made of a discharge tube filled with argon gas. The tube has electrodes sealed at both ends.

Applications

Argon lamps are used in a number of applications that are listed below:

• Sign boards
• Electronic equipment
• Used in neon lamps

References

• Electrical Discharges – Denver University
• The Noble Gases – University of California, Davis