What are the applications of neon in lighting?

Neon is primarily used in lighting, specifically in neon signs and fluorescent lights.

Neon is a noble gas that is commonly used in the lighting industry due to its unique properties. When an electric current is passed through neon gas, it emits a bright red-orange light. This is why neon is often used in advertising signs, commonly known as neon signs. These signs are made of glass tubes that are filled with neon gas and then sealed. When electricity is applied, the neon gas inside the tube glows brightly, creating a vibrant and eye-catching display.

In addition to neon signs, neon is also used in fluorescent lights. These lights work on a similar principle as neon signs, but they use a mixture of gases, including neon. The inside of the fluorescent tube is coated with a phosphor material. When the gas mixture inside the tube is excited by electricity, it emits ultraviolet light. This ultraviolet light then strikes the phosphor coating, causing it to glow and produce visible light.

Neon is also used in high-voltage indicators and in lightning arrestors, devices that protect electrical equipment from damage due to high voltages. In these applications, the neon gas acts as an excellent insulator, preventing the flow of electricity until a certain voltage is reached. Once this voltage is exceeded, the neon gas becomes ionised and conducts electricity, allowing the excess voltage to be safely discharged.

Furthermore, neon is used in lasers, which are devices that produce intense beams of light. In a neon laser, a mixture of neon and helium gases is excited by an electric current, causing the neon atoms to emit light. This light is then amplified to produce a powerful laser beam. Neon lasers are used in a variety of applications, including barcode scanners and laser printers.