neonilamppuja

Neonilamppuja, often referred to as neon lights, are a type of cold cathode discharge lamp that produces light by ionizing a gas. The most common form of neon lamp uses neon gas, which emits a characteristic reddish-orange glow when an electric current is passed through it. However, by filling the tubes with other noble gases or mixtures of gases, and by coating the inside of the glass tube with phosphors, a wide spectrum of colors can be achieved. These colored lights are distinct from the pure neon glow.

The construction of a neon lamp involves a sealed glass tube containing the gas at a low pressure. Electrodes are placed at each end of the tube. When a high voltage is applied across these electrodes, it ionizes the gas, causing it to conduct electricity and emit light. The voltage required for ignition is significantly higher than the voltage needed to sustain the discharge.

Historically, neon lamps were widely used for decorative lighting, signage, and displays due to their vibrant colors and longevity. Their unique aesthetic qualities made them a popular choice for advertising and architectural illumination. While their use in general lighting has largely been superseded by more energy-efficient technologies like LEDs, neon lamps continue to be appreciated for their artistic and retro appeal, finding applications in custom lighting designs and as a nostalgic element in some modern installations.