neonilähteet

Neon sources refer to devices or phenomena that emit light due to the excitation of neon gas. Neon is a noble gas with the atomic number 10. When an electric current passes through neon gas at low pressure, its atoms become energized and then release this energy in the form of photons, which are perceived as light. The characteristic color of light emitted by neon gas is a bright reddish-orange.

The most common application of neon sources is in neon signs. These signs are made by heating and bending glass tubes into desired shapes. The tubes are then evacuated and filled with neon gas. When electricity is applied to electrodes at either end of the tube, the neon gas glows. While commonly referred to as "neon signs," many signs that appear to be neon actually use other noble gases or mixtures of gases to produce different colors. For example, argon gas produces a blue light, and mercury vapor can be added to enhance other colors.

Beyond signage, neon sources can be found in some older types of electrical equipment as indicator lights. These are often small, low-power bulbs containing neon gas. The characteristic reddish-orange glow of pure neon is distinctive and was historically used for its visibility. The principle behind neon sources, gas discharge, is fundamental to many lighting technologies, including fluorescent lamps and certain types of lasers. The low pressure required for neon gas to glow efficiently is crucial for its operation in these applications.