ALA Lighting Specialist Practice Exam

Incandescent lamps are indeed more sensitive to voltage fluctuations, which makes them a distinctive characteristic compared to fluorescent lamps. When the voltage supply to an incandescent lamp changes, it directly affects the temperature of the filament and, consequently, the brightness of the light output. A small increase in voltage can lead to a significant increase in filament temperature and light output, but it also risks shortening the lifespan of the bulb due to overheating.

In contrast, fluorescent lamps have a built-in ballast that helps regulate the voltage and current, making them less sensitive to minor fluctuations. This built-in feature allows fluorescent lamps to maintain stable performance even when there are variations in ambient voltage, leading to more consistent lighting over their lifespan.

This sensitivity to voltage in incandescent lamps can also create issues in installations where voltage levels are not stable, potentially leading to rapid burnout of the bulbs. Therefore, understanding the relationship between voltage and lamp performance is critical when selecting lighting solutions for various applications.