How Does Electric Lighter Work

An electric lighter, specifically a piezoelectric lighter, operates by generating a spark to ignite gas or flammable material. Here's a breakdown of how it works:

1.Piezoelectric Effect:

• Inside the lighter is a small piezoelectric crystal, often quartz.
• When you press the lighter's button, it compresses a spring-loaded hammer that strikes the crystal, applying mechanical pressure.

2.Electric Charge Generation:

• The pressure on the crystal causes it to deform slightly, which generates an electrical charge due to the piezoelectric effect.
• This charge builds up and is released suddenly in the form of a high-voltage electric spark.

3.Spark Ignites Gas:

• The spark jumps across a small gap, typically near the gas outlet, igniting the gas (if present) and producing a flame.
• If it's used in a cigarette lighter or a stove lighter, the flame is sustained by the gas, usually butane or propane, until the gas supply is cut off.

Components:

• Piezoelectric crystal: Generates the charge.
• Spring and hammer mechanism: Applies the mechanical pressure.
• Metal electrodes: Create the gap for the spark to jump across.
• Gas valve: Releases gas for the flame.

Unlike traditional lighters that use flint and steel to create a spark, piezoelectric lighters are more durable and don't require replacing flints.