Question

A medium-pressure mercury-vapor lamp emitts EM radiation at λ of 200–600 nm. A wavelenght of around 260 nm is germicidal, which is exactly what I need to construct my purifier :D However I was wondering, if I varied the current passing through the vapor, would it emitt different wavelenghts based on the amount of current? In other words, will the wavelength of the EM radiation from the Hg gas change with different currents?

Answer 1

i dont think so

Answer 2

The Hg lamp (in question) emits radiation due to electric discharge and the wavelengths thus produced are characteristic of the element present and not the value of Current. However, a Hg lamp is negative resistance lamp; the resistance decreases with increasing current. So if the current is increased the lamp's resistance will decrease until it burns itself out.

Answer 3

to ionize it you will need a quanta of energy,no matter if you put more energy

Answer 4

Hmmm okay well if the wavelenght will stay consistent, then will introducing a stronger current mean more quanta of energy and therefore mean more radiation?

Answer 5

Correct, the intensity of radiation increases and not its wavelength.

Answer 6

I need to find a lab assistant/partner like you Akitav... thanks again :D