Here's how a fluorescent lamp operates. Each end of the lamp contains a cathode that, when energized, will initiate an electric arc across the ends of the lamp. As electrons travel through the length of the lamp, they encounter mercury atoms that have been vaporized in the lamp. When the electron strikes the mercury atom, there is a transfer of energy that causes the mercury atom to transform into an excited state. The mercury atoms release this newly acquired energy by emitting ultraviolet radiation. The ultraviolet or "UV" radiation travels radially from its source until it strikes the inner surface of the lamp. It's here that a phosphor coating absorbs the "UV" radiation and releases this energy as heat and visible light. As energy travels through the glass tube, only the heat and visible light are permitted to pass while the harmful UV radiation (which cannot pass through glass) remains inside the lamp.

And Furthermore . . .

Fluorescent Components

Operating Characteristics