mercury arc

noun

, Electricity.

1. a bluish-green electric arc that has passed through a mercury-vapor cathode.

mercury arc

noun

1. 1. an electric discharge through ionized mercury vapour, producing a brilliant bluish-green light containing ultraviolet radiation
   2. ( as modifier ) See also ignitron

      a mercury-arc rectifier

Word History and Origins

Origin of mercury arc¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The mercury arc rectifier is a device for changing an alternating current into a direct current.

From Project Gutenberg

It is a device broadly similar to the mercury-arc lamp produced by Peter Cooper Hewitt.

From Project Gutenberg

The mercury-arc rectifier proper consists of a glass bulb containing vacuum and a small amount of mercury.

From Project Gutenberg

The circuit of a mercury-arc rectifier charging outfit is shown in Fig. 415.

From Project Gutenberg

A term usually used in connection with electrolytic apparatus, mercury arc rectifiers, and electric arcs.

From Project Gutenberg