Leiter's tubes, also known as Geissler tubes, are a type of glass tube used for demonstrating phenomena related to electricity and gas discharge. Named after their inventor, the German physicist Heinrich Geissler, these tubes consist of a sealed glass cylinder with electrodes at each end, typically filled with a low-pressure gas.
The most common form of Leiter's tubes is the "neon tube," which contains neon or a mixture of gases that produce a colorful glow when an electric current passes through them. These tubes are commonly used in advertising signs, where the gas inside is ionized and emits light.
Leiter's tubes are utilized in scientific experiments to investigate electrical discharge phenomena. When a high voltage is applied between the electrodes, the gas inside the tube ionizes, and a visible discharge can be observed. The distinctive color of the discharge depends on the type of gas inside the tube, as well as any phosphorescent coatings on the glass.
These tubes are also essential in spectroscopy, as they allow scientists to examine the specific wavelengths of light emitted by different gases. By observing the emitted spectrum, researchers can identify elements present in a sample or analyze the spectral properties of different materials.
In summary, Leiter's tubes are glass cylinders filled with low-pressure gases that exhibit electrical discharge phenomena when a high voltage is applied. They serve various scientific and practical purposes, from visual displays to spectroscopy experiments, offering valuable insights into the behavior of electricity and gases.
