The first light bulb, invented by Thomas Edison, burned for approximately 13.5 hours. After months of experimentation and countless failures, Edison finally found success with a filament made from a coiled cotton thread that had been baked until it turned into carbon. This carbon filament proved to be the winning choice for creating a long-lasting and reliable light source.
Edison's journey to create the first light bulb was not an easy one. Initially, he set out with the goal of completing this project in just three or four months. However, as is often the case with innovation and invention, the process took much longer than expected. In fact, it took Edison a total of 14 months to achieve his desired result.
During this time, Edison tirelessly experimented with a wide range of materials to find the perfect filament for his light bulb. He tested various metals, including platinum and tungsten, as well as different plant fibers like bamboo and sisal. Despite his efforts, none of these materials proved to be suitable for long-lasting illumination.
It was only when Edison turned to carbonized cotton thread that he found the solution he had been searching for. By baking the coiled cotton thread until it transformed into carbon, he created a filament that could withstand the high temperatures required for lighting without burning out quickly.
To test the durability of his carbon filament, Edison placed it inside a glass bulb that was almost completely devoid of air. Creating a near-vacuum environment inside the bulb helped to prevent oxidation and further extended the lifespan of the filament. As a result, the carbon filament was able to stay lit for an impressive 13.5 hours, marking a significant breakthrough in the history of lighting technology.
It is important to note that the 13.5-hour burn time of the first light bulb was a remarkable achievement for its time. Prior to this invention, artificial lighting was limited to candles, oil lamps, and gas lamps, all of which had significantly shorter lifespans and required frequent maintenance.
Edison's perseverance and dedication to his work paid off in the end. His invention of the long-lasting light bulb revolutionized the way we illuminate our homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Without his tireless efforts and determination, the world would not have experienced the tremendous advancements in lighting technology that we enjoy today.
The first light bulb invented by Thomas Edison burned for approximately 13.5 hours. This achievement came after 14 months of relentless experimentation and the discovery of a carbonized cotton thread filament that could withstand the high temperatures necessary for illumination. Edison's invention laid the foundation for modern lighting technology and forever changed the way we light up the world around us.