The filament of an electric bulb is made of Tungsten. The bulbs are usually filled with which of the following chemically inactive gases to prolong the life of the filament?
The filament of an electric bulb is made of Tungsten. The bulbs are usually filled with which of the following chemically inactive gases to prolong the life of the filament?
Solution
Option 1 -> Helium has high thermal conductivity causing excessive heat loss, making it less ideal for bulbs.
Option 2 -> Argon and Nitrogen are both chemically inert gases commonly used together in incandescent bulbs to prevent tungsten oxidation.
Option 3 -> Hydrogen is highly reactive and flammable, not chemically inactive, making it unsuitable for bulb filling.
Option 4 -> Hydrogen is reactive and poses safety risks; this combination is not used in standard bulbs.
Hence, Option 2 (Nitrogen and Argon) -> Argon, being a noble gas, is chemically inert and reduces tungsten evaporation at high temperatures. Nitrogen is also relatively inert and cost-effective. This combination creates an inert atmosphere that prevents oxidation of the filament and significantly prolongs bulb life -> correct
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