Mercury vapour lamp

Definition

A type of gas discharge lamp that uses mercury in an excited state to produce light. Frequently utilized in entomological studies to attract night-flying insects for observation or collection.

Etymology

Derived from 'Mercury,' the chemical element, and 'vapour,' from Latin 'vapor' meaning 'steam' or 'fume,' and 'lamp,' from the Greek 'lampas' meaning 'torch' or 'light'.

Example

Entomologists often use mercury vapour lamps to attract and study nocturnal insects such as moths and beetles.

Synonyms

• Mercury arc lamp
• Hg lamp

Related Terms

• Light trap
• Ultraviolet light
• Insect collection
• Night-flying insects

Usage Notes

Mercury vapour lamps are effective in attracting insects but should be handled with care due to the toxic nature of mercury.