What is the purpose of the anode in a gas discharge tube?

Source: JAMB · 2024

What is the purpose of the anode in a gas discharge tube?

  1. To emit photons
  2. To absorb electrons ✓
  3. To emit sound waves
  4. To release heat
Explanation

In a gas discharge tube, a high voltage across the two electrodes ionises the gas. The cathode is negative and the anode is positive.

Electrons leave the cathode and are attracted to the positive anode, which absorbs electrons and completes the circuit. Positive ions go the other way, to the cathode.

Light from the glowing gas comes from the gas itself, not from the anode.

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