lighter

A lighter is a portable handheld device designed to produce a flame for lighting purposes. By far the most common use is lighting cigarettes, cigars, candles, or small stoves, though lighters are also employed in camping and various crafts.

Most lighters belong to two broad classes: disposable fuel lighters and refillable lighters. Some newer models use electric ignition and produce a plasma arc instead of a flame.

Mechanism: In traditional fuel lighters, fuel is released from a pressurized reservoir through a valve, and an ignition source — a flint wheel striking against a rough surface to create a spark, or a piezoelectric ignition in modern models — ignites the vapor. The flame is sustained by a small vent and flame retention screen; flame height is adjustable in many designs.

Fuels: Common fuels include butane or isobutane mixtures in disposable and refillable lighters; some durable models use naphtha-based fuels, such as in traditional wick and cap lighters. Electric lighters use high-temperature arcs or coils activated by a button.

Safety and regulation: Lighters are designed with child-resistant features in many jurisdictions. They are flammable and can cause burns or fires, so they are kept away from heat, sun, and children. Many regions regulate size, capacity, and sales to minors; disposal guidelines vary and some places require recycling as hazardous waste.

History: The modern lighter evolved from earlier flame ignition devices, with significant development in the early 20th century introducing portable, reliable ignition via pressurized fuels and mechanical or electric igniters.