What is the Plasma Ball ?

What is the Plasma Ball ?  Science Decor

Plasma ball: how does it work ?

From improving your concentration levels to reducing stress and anxiety, the benefits of light therapy are widely known. Light therapy continues to grow in popularity as people begin to understand its applications, but one type of light therapy has recently taken the beauty industry by storm: the plasma bulb.

The plasma lamp is a small home decor lamp that creates a play of colors through the use of an ionized gas (plasma). By inducing a trance-like state and reducing stress levels, the plasma ball can be used as a meditation tool, a relaxation tool, or even just an interesting addition to your home decor. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the plasma lamp.


What is a plasma ball ?

The plasma ball is an indoor ornamental lamp that creates a hypnotic effect thanks to the Led that diffuses waves. The plasma balls produce an ionized gas (plasma) which is fed by an alternating current source. Consisting of a glass sphere filled with an ionized gas and sealed at the bottom by an electric discharge, the plasma lamp is used to create lightning.

This scientific object produces a visual and auditory effect that is both psychedelic and soothing, making it an intriguing addition to any home. Most plasma balls are controlled by a switch or remote to change the intensity and pattern of the light.


How does the plasma lamp work ? How is plasma formed ?

The plasma ball creates an ionized gas that is powered by an AC power source. Once the plasma is created by a high voltage discharge, it is then maintained by a lower voltage current. The glass globe of the plasma ball contains neon or xenon gas which is ionized by the high voltage. When the electricity is cut off, the ions are separated into electrons and positive ions. These ions are then repelled by the glass and the electrons are attracted to the glass. The electrons collide with the glass, creating a cascade of light waves. The ions are then brought back to the positive electrode and the process starts again thanks to these particles.


How can I use the plasma ball ?

The plasma lamp is used as a meditation tool and relaxation aid, as the flickering light has been shown to act as a calming influence on the user's brain rhythms. The plasma ball can also be used as a tool to improve your concentration levels, as the led creates a trance-like state that facilitates focus.

Plasma balls can also be used as a nightlight to help ease children's fears and promote relaxation. However, the visual effect of the plasma ball should not be used as a substitute for therapy. If you have been diagnosed with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), or are a child with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), the visual stimuli of the plasma ball may be too overwhelming.

Simply place your finger(s) on the surface of the sphere to see electric filaments form, creating a fantastic ambiance in your child's room.



Who should use a plasma ball ?


Plasma lamps are ideal for people who are looking for an interesting addition to their home as well as for those who are looking for a meditation tool. The wobbly led of the plasma ball can induce a trance-like state that facilitates concentration.

If you are someone who can benefit from the calming effects of light therapy, the plasma lamp is a fun alternative to more traditional light therapy devices. Children with ASD and PTSD are often recommended to use light therapy as a treatment, which is where the plasma lamp comes in. While not a substitute for psychiatric treatment, the plasma ball can be used as a visual aid to help ease fears and calm a child's brain rhythms.

Several comparisons with different reviews and prices can tell you which one will be best for your purchasing decision. Plasma lamps often stand on a base and change mostly in size, color choice, and design!


Disadvantages of the plasma lamp

While the advantages of the plasma lamp are numerous, the color schemes of the plasma ball have some disadvantages. Here are some of them:

  • Visual stimuli can be overwhelming for children with ASD, PTSD or BPD.
  • Plasma balls are not recommended for children under 5 years of age due to risk of injury.
  • The flickering light can cause eye strain in those who stare at it too long.
  • The plasma ball may not be ideal for people with epilepsy, as the strobe light can cause seizures.
The plasma ball is an interesting light that creates flashes through the use of plasma and a low voltage current. While the visual effects of the plasma ball are fascinating, this soothing led can also be used as a meditation and relaxation tool in a room. If you are looking to add an interesting decorative piece to your home, or if you are simply looking to relax, the plasma ball is an excellent choice.

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1 comment

John Smith

John Smith

Very interesting!

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