Introduction
Although artificial light might seem white in appearance, scientific evidence indicates that it consists of a range of colors. The benefits of light depending on how, what, and when it is put into use (Amin 12). This reflective treatise attempts to explore the invention of artificial light, benefits, and usage in the field of chemistry.
The invention of Artificial Light
Although there is a controversy about who invented artificial light between Humphry Davy and Thomas Alva Edison, the universal science community has attributed the invention to Humphry Davy (Allen 12). The first electric light was invented by Humphry in the year 1802 through a combination of an efficient incandescent substance, a vacuum space, and a high resistance field. Humphry used his then the world’s most powerful electric battery to invent incandescent light. This was achieved by “passing an electric current through a thin strip of platinum, which glowed and produced light” (Allen 31). Although the experiment produced the first artificial light, it was too bright and did not last long. These principles were later used by other scientists to make improvements and create the electric bulb.
Benefits of Artificial Light
Artificial light has brought convenience to humanity as a movement at night has become easier and safer. Moreover, lighting in industries enables mankind to operate a 24-hour economy (Jay 16). For instance, solar flood lights have made it possible for mankind to hold outdoor functions at night, such as sports, because of improved visibility. In the recent past, artificial light has become a significant design tool in the field of construction and architecture as an interior and an exterior supplement (Hardman 27). For instance, light strings and highlights have become a class statement in the interior and exterior of modern megastructures across the globe. Artificial light has also been used in horticulture and floriculture to improve on the yields. At present, a substantial proportion of horticultural crops and flowers are grown in a controlled environment where the green light is used in supporting fast maturity (Knight 42). In addition, indoor gardening has become a reality and a way of life for millions of the world population because of artificial light.
Artificial Light in Chemistry
The invention of artificial light was, in fact, an experimental process. This means that there are several uses of light in the dynamic field of chemistry. To begin with, artificial light is used in most of the experiments in the laboratory to support controlled and uncontrolled setups (Roberts 39). For instance, plant-related experiments such as studying the growth path are supported by artificial light, which can be regulated, unlike natural light. Moreover, artificial light is actively used in the decomposition and studying the characteristics of different elements or compounds. For example, the light test is very common in identifying different elements within a compound on the basis of how they react to a beam of light (Jay 19). Apart from direct experiments, artificial light is used in chemistry labs to enhance visibility. Since most experiments run for several hours and days, light provides the much need visibility support that is consistent (Knight 42). This means that artificial light has made it possible for scientists to carry out experiments without interruption.
Conclusion
Humphry Davy invented artificial light in 1802. The benefits of artificial light are enhanced visibility, improved productivity in horticulture, and elongated working hours. In the field of chemistry, light supports several experiments and improve visibility in laboratories.
Works Cited
Allen, David, et al. Organophosphorus Chemistry. Vol. 44, Royal Society of Chemistry, 2015.
Amin, Wahida. The Poetry and Science of Humphry Davy. Dissertation, University of Salford, 2013. UIO, 2017.
Hardman, Jonathan. Oxford Textbook of Anesthesia. Oxford University Press, 2017.
Jay, Mike. “”O, Excellent Air Bag”: Humphry Davy and Nitrous Oxide.” The Public Domain Review, vol. 4, no, 16, 2014, Web.
Knight, David. “Left Behind.” Distillations, vol. 2, no. 4, 2017, Web.
Roberts, Jacob. “High Times.” Distillations, vol. 2, no. 4, 2017, Web.