The Evolution of the Light Bulb

Thomas Edison, with over 1,000 patents, is renowned for inventing the light bulb. However, the invention's history is complex. Before Edison, Frederick de Molin and Joseph Swan made significant contributions. Edison's breakthrough came in 1879 with a carbon filament, leading to a practical bulb lasting 600 hours. Edison and Swan eventually collaborated, making the light bulb a commercial success and a symbol of innovation.

What is Thomas Edison most famous for inventing?

• The radio

• The telephone

• The television

• The light bulb

Who was the first to claim a patent for a filament-based incandescent lamp?

• Joseph Swan

• Frederick de Molin

• Nikola Tesla

• Thomas Edison

What was a major issue with early light bulbs designed by Frederick de Molin?

• They were too expensive and burned out quickly

• They were too large

• They were too dim

• They were too bright

What material did Joseph Swan use for his light bulb filament?

• Tungsten

• Carbon

• Copper

• Platinum

Why were Joseph Swan's light bulbs not suitable for consumers?

• They were too expensive

• They burned out too quickly

• They were too dim

• They were too large

What was Edison's key realization for making a practical light bulb?

• Using a thicker filament

• Using a very thin carbon filament with high resistance

• Using a glass filament

• Using a metal filament

What material did Edison finally use for his light bulb filaments?

• Tungsten

• Copper

• Platinum

• Carbonized bamboo

How long could Edison's improved light bulbs last?

• 600 hours

• 100 hours

• 200 hours

• 400 hours

What was the outcome of the litigation between Edison and Swan?

• Edison won the case

• The case was dismissed

• Swan won the case

• They formed a joint company

What is the light bulb a symbol of in history?

• Art

• Innovation

• Wealth

• Power