The spelling of "plasma screen" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): /ˈplæzmə skrin/. The first syllable, "plas-", is pronounced with a short "a" sound and a "z" sound, while the second syllable, "-ma", is pronounced with a long "a" sound. The final syllable, "-screen", is pronounced with a short "i" sound and a "n" sound. Together, these sounds create the distinctive pronunciation of the term used to describe a type of flat-screen television or computer monitor.
A plasma screen refers to a type of display technology commonly used in televisions and computer monitors. It is characterized by the use of plasma, a gaseous state of matter, as the medium to form images and produce light.
Plasma screens consist of millions of tiny cells or pixels, each filled with a mixture of noble gases such as neon and xenon. These gases are electrically charged to form plasma, which emits ultraviolet light when electricity is applied. The ultraviolet light then strikes phosphors, which convert the UV light into visible light, producing images on the screen.
The advantage of a plasma screen lies in its ability to create vibrant and high-resolution images, with deep colors and wide viewing angles. It offers a smooth and flicker-free visual experience, making it ideal for fast-moving images such as in action movies or sports. Furthermore, plasma screens have excellent contrast ratios, providing rich blacks and bright whites, enhancing picture quality.
However, it is worth noting that plasma screens also have certain limitations. They tend to be heavier and consume more power compared to other display technologies like LCD or LED. Additionally, plasma screens are susceptible to image retention or "burn-in," where static images displayed for a prolonged period can leave a permanent imprint on the screen. Although advancements in technology have reduced these issues over time, it remains a consideration for potential users.
Overall, plasma screens are known for their impressive picture quality and color reproduction, making them highly sought after in the realm of home theater systems and multimedia experiences.
The word "plasma" in "plasma screen" comes from the Greek word "plasma", meaning "moldable substance" or "something formed". It was first used in the context of physics by English scientist Sir William Crookes in 1879 to describe a distinct state of matter. A plasma is a partially ionized gas consisting of positively charged ions and negatively charged electrons, along with neutral particles.
The term "plasma screen" specifically refers to a type of flat-panel display technology that uses phosphors excited by plasma cells to produce an image. It became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The "screen" portion of the term simply refers to the display surface or panel.