Vape

A vape is a device that heats a liquid to create an inhalable aerosol. The term covers electronic cigarettes and related devices such as vape pens, pod systems, and box-mods. Vaping heats a liquid rather than burning tobacco, and many products deliver nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals in aerosol form.

A typical device includes a power source (battery), a heating element (coil), and a liquid reservoir, cartridge, or tank. When activated, the liquid is heated into an aerosol that the user inhales. Liquids are sold as e-liquids or vape juice and may contain nicotine in varying concentrations.

Liquids usually contain propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin as solvents, with flavorings and nicotine. Some products use nicotine salts for higher nicotine strengths with smoother use. Devices vary from closed systems (pre-filled pods) to open systems (refillable tanks), and from low- to high-wattage.

History and use: modern vaping appeared in the early 2000s in China and expanded worldwide in the 2010s. It has been used by some adults as an alternative to smoking, but youth uptake and non-nicotine use have raised public health concerns.

Health and safety: long-term health effects are not fully known. Nicotine is addictive and can affect developing brains. Inhaled aerosols may carry irritants and flavoring agents; device failures can cause fires or explosions. Regulation and product standards aim to improve safety and transparency.

Regulation: jurisdictions differ on age limits, marketing, labeling, and product standards. Some places restrict flavors or advertising to reduce appeal to youth. Public health assessments continue to evaluate vaping's role in smoking cessation and population health.