What defines a halogen lamp?

A halogen lamp is specifically defined as a gas-filled tungsten filament incandescent lamp. The key characteristic of halogen lamps is that they contain a small amount of a halogen gas, which helps to increase the efficiency and lifespan of the bulb compared to standard incandescent lamps. This halogen gas recycles the tungsten that evaporates from the filament, allowing it to redeposit back onto the filament, thereby maintaining brightness and longevity.

The unique construction of a halogen lamp allows it to operate at a higher temperature than traditional incandescent lamps, resulting in a whiter, brighter light, which is often preferred in various lighting applications. Their advantages in terms of light quality and efficiency distinguish them from other types of lamps, such as fluorescent lights or those that utilize LED technology, which operate on entirely different principles.