GAS MANTLE Meaning and
Definition
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A gas mantle is a device used in gas lamps and lanterns to produce a bright and steady light. It consists of a fabric or fabric-like material that is impregnated with compounds containing rare-earth elements, such as thorium or yttrium, which emit a strong and efficient light when heated. The fabric mantle is typically shaped like a bag or a cylinder.
To utilize a gas mantle, it is placed over the burner of a gas lamp or lantern, where it is heated by the flame. As the mantle gets hotter, the compounds impregnated in the fabric undergo a chemical reaction called incandescence. This reaction emits a brilliant white light as the rare-earth elements in the compounds glow.
Gas mantles are highly efficient in their light production because they convert a significant portion of the input gas energy into visible light. The resulting light is much brighter and whiter than the light emitted by a simple gas flame, making gas mantles ideal for indoor lighting, camping, and outdoor illumination purposes.
While gas mantles provide a reliable and efficient light source, they are delicate and require careful handling. The fabric can be fragile, and even slight deviations from proper usage can lead to damage or breakage. Consequently, it is essential to handle and install gas mantles with care to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Etymology of GAS MANTLE
The word "gas mantle" has a relatively straightforward etymology.
The term "gas" originated from the Greek word "khaos" which means "empty space" or "that which gapes". It was later adopted into Latin as "chaos" and referred to the formless state of the universe before the creation. Eventually, it came to be associated with any substance or state that was gaseous in nature.
The word "mantle" has its roots in the Latin word "mantellum" which means "cloak" or "covering". In English, it primarily refers to a loose-fitting sleeveless garment that hangs loosely from the shoulders, or metaphorically, to a protective covering or layer.
When these two words are combined, "gas mantle" refers to a specific type of lighting device.
Similar spelling word for GAS MANTLE
