Explain how fluorescent tubes work

Fluorescent tubes are filled with low pressure mercury, when an electric current is passed through, the electrons in mercury are excited and move to a high energy level, this high level state is unstable and so the electron moves back to its original state, but on doing so, it emits an electromagnetic wave with energy equivalent the difference in energy level. This is UV light and the electrons in the phosphor coating inside the fluorescent tube are excited, and releases visible light when the electrons return to its orginal energy state, which provides the glow in fluorescent lights.

MW
Answered by Michael W. Physics tutor

34176 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I derive equations for Time of Flight and Range in Parabolic Motion?


A ball is kicked from a tower (50m) at a speed of 20m/s. How far away does the ball hit the ground?


What is the derivative of distance with respect to time.


Explain the photoelectric effect, when does it occur and what is its significance in understanding the nature of light ? (6)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning