Science: Flashlamp

Compared to other accessories of modern photography, the noise, smoke and smell of flashlight powder are anachronistic. General Electric told last week of a new fiashlamp, with smell, smoke and noise eliminated.

Instead of the old unwieldy magnesium powder pan, the new flashlamp looks like an ordinary incandescent bulb. Filled with oxygen, the bulb contains a specially coated filament and crumpled sheets of thin aluminum foil. When the circuit is closed the filament lights, ignites the aluminum foil. Each bulb is used only once. The lamp can be plugged in on an...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!