Fluorescent ‘energy saving’ bulb
Connection with particle physics The electron collides with the atom of Hg and excites it The Hg atom returns to its ground state and emits UV radiation The UV radiation excites the atoms of the fluorescent substance The atoms of the fluorescent substance return to the ground state but emit visible light
Comparison between the old electric bulb and the new ‘energy saving’ bulb (when providing adequate light in the same room) Fluorescent bulbElectric bulb Power20W100W Daily use5hrs Daily energy consumption 0.1Kwh0.5Kwh Monthly energy consumption 3Kwh15Kwh Monthly cost90 greek drachmas450 greek drachmas Life time8000 hrs1000 hrs
Conclusion The fluorescent bulb is superior to the electric bulb because it last longer and it saves energy. The disadvantages are that it costs a bit more to buy and that its light is not as ‘warm’ as that from an electric bulb.