What is what element is used in light bulbs as a filament?

The element used in light bulbs as a filament is usually tungsten. Tungsten has a very high melting point (3,422°C) which makes it a suitable material for the filament since it needs to be able to withstand the high temperature required to produce light. When an electric current is passed through the filament, it heats up and emits light. The tungsten filament is enclosed in a glass bulb filled with an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen to prevent it from oxidizing and burning out quickly. Tungsten is also used in other applications such as electrical contacts, welding electrodes, and X-ray tubes, due to its high melting point and resistance to erosion.