Word: Vacuum Tube
Definition: A vacuum tube is an electronic device that helps control the flow of electricity. It consists of a system of electrodes (like small metal parts) that are arranged inside a sealed glass or metal container from which the air has been removed (this is called "evacuated"). This allows the tube to work without interference from air.
Usage Instructions: Vacuum tubes are primarily used in older electronic devices, such as radios and amplifiers, to amplify sound and control signals. Nowadays, they are less common because modern technology usually uses transistors instead, but they are still found in some high-quality audio equipment and in certain types of old televisions.
Example Sentence: "The radio from the 1950s still works because it has vacuum tubes that amplify the sound."
Advanced Usage: In modern contexts, vacuum tubes are often discussed in relation to audio equipment, where they are appreciated for their warm sound quality. Some musicians and audio engineers prefer equipment that uses vacuum tubes over solid-state technology because they believe it produces a richer sound.
Word Variants: - Vacuum Tubes (plural): Refers to more than one vacuum tube. - Vacuum Tube Amplifier: A specific type of amplifier that uses vacuum tubes.
Different Meanings: The term "vacuum" can refer to a space without matter, such as in outer space, but in "vacuum tube," it specifically refers to the absence of air inside the device.
Synonyms: - Electron Tube - Thermionic Valve (especially in British English)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs commonly associated with "vacuum tube," but you might encounter phrases related to technology, such as "tube amp" when discussing audio equipment.