22/01/2023
Candles, oil lamps, and gas lights were the main sources of artificial light until the light bulb was created. Not only were these sources less effective, but they also created a serious fire risk. Thomas Edison's creation of the light bulb in 1879 gave people access to sources of artificial light that were safer, more effective, and more dependable. The widespread use of the light bulb resulted in a number of social and economic developments, including the growth of metropolitan areas and the ability to work and study at night.
The history of the light bulb dates back to the early 19th century, when various inventors began experimenting with ways to create a reliable and long-lasting source of artificial light. In 1802, Humphry Davy demonstrated an electric arc lamp, but it was not practical for indoor use. In 1835, Warren de la Rue enclosed a coiled platinum filament in a vacuum tube, but the high cost of the platinum made it impractical. In 1841, Frederick de Moleyns received a patent for an incandescent lamp using a platinum filament, but it too was expensive. In 1854, Joseph Swan began experimenting with carbonized paper filaments in a vacuum, and in 1879, he was able to exhibit a practical electric light. Thomas Edison patented the first electric light bulb in 1879. His design used a carbon filament and was powered by direct current (DC). The bulb was not very efficient and had a short lifespan, but it was the first to be practical for indoor use. It was soon improved by Hiram Maxim, who used a different type of filament, and William Sawyer and Albon Man, who developed a more efficient version of the bulb. Incandescent bulbs continued to be developed and improved upon, and by the early 20th century, they had become the dominant form of artificial lighting.
