What is hydrogen discharge lamp?

Hydrogen discharge lamps are gas discharge lamps that produce light by passing an electric current through hydrogen gas. They are typically used in scientific applications, such as spectroscopy and plasma research, as well as in certain industrial applications.

Hydrogen discharge lamps consist of a sealed glass tube filled with hydrogen gas at low pressure. The tube has two electrodes, one at each end, which are connected to a high-voltage power supply. When the power supply is turned on, it creates an electric current that passes through the hydrogen gas, exciting the gas molecules and causing them to emit light.

The light emitted by hydrogen discharge lamps is primarily in the ultraviolet and visible regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, with little or no output in the infrared. The exact wavelengths of light emitted depend on the pressure and composition of the hydrogen gas, as well as the design of the lamp tube.

One of the major advantages of hydrogen discharge lamps is their high brightness and efficiency, particularly in the ultraviolet region. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to produce, making them a popular choice for many scientific and industrial applications. However, they have limited applications in general lighting due to their specialized spectral output and relatively low power outputs.