Photo AI
1. Explain the underlying principle of one type of energy efficient lighting - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(b) - 2013
Question 1(b)
1. Explain the underlying principle of one type of energy efficient lighting. 2. Give details of three contemporary developments in lighting technology.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. Explain the underlying principle of one type of energy efficient lighting - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(b) - 2013
Step 1
Explain the underlying principle of one type of energy efficient lighting.
Answer
One type of energy-efficient lighting is the Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL). CFLs are made compact by looping the tube a number of times and consist of a glass tube coated with phosphor. Inside the tube, contains argon and mercury. When electricity flows through electrodes at each end of the glass tube, it causes the argon to vaporize and the mercury to vaporize; the gas reacts with the phosphor coating and emits UV light, which is then transformed into visible light by the phosphor coating. This process improves energy efficiency by producing more light with less electricity.
Another example is Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). When switched on, LEDs allow electrons to recombine with holes within the bulb, resulting in the release of energy in the form of light. The brightness of the LED can be controlled by the amount of current supplied. LEDs are highly efficient because they convert a large percentage of input energy into visible light, giving them a long lifespan and low energy consumption.
Step 2
Give details of three contemporary developments in lighting technology.
Answer
-
Smart Lighting: This technology includes features such as touch-sensitive switches, app-controlled dimmers, and motion detectors that allow for customizable and energy-efficient lighting solutions.
-
LED Technology: Advancements in LED technology have led to improved efficiency and color quality. Current applications employ LED lighting in various settings, drastically reducing energy consumption compared to incandescent bulbs.
-
Sustainable Lighting Solutions: Innovations focus on the use of solar-powered lights for outdoor areas, which harness sunlight during the day to provide illumination at night, thus reducing dependence on electrical power.