Wolfram (tungsten) filament high-intensity incandescent
lamp containing iodine in a quartz envelope.
Used primarily as a source of
visible radiation.
Notes:
-
In halogen lamps, the quartz envelope is closer to the filament than the glass used
in conventional light bulbs. Heating the filament to a high temperature causes the
tungsten
(wolfram) atoms to evaporate and combine with the halogen gas. These heavier molecules
are then
deposited back on the filament surface. This recycling process increases the life
of the tungsten
(wolfram) filament and enables the lamp to produce more light per unit of input energy. Consequently,
halogen lamps are used in a variety of applications, including automobile headlights.
-
Halogens other than iodine may be used in these lamps.
Source:
PAC, 2007, 79, 293
(Glossary of terms used in photochemistry, 3rd edition (IUPAC Recommendations 2006))
on page 407