spark gap

noun

, Electricity.

1. a space between two electrodes, across which a discharge of electricity may take place.
2. the electrodes and the space between, considered as a unit: used in ignition systems.

spark gap

noun

1. the space between two electrodes across which a spark can jump Sometimes shortened togap

spark gap

1. A gap in an otherwise closed electric circuit across which a discharge occurs at a prescribed voltage. The discharge often causes ionization of the surrounding gas and thereby very high temperatures, and can be exploited, as in spark plugs, to ignite engine fuel in a combustion chamber.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spark gap¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Then sparks may jump between the wires and streamers become visible in the dark if the light of the discharge through the spark gap d d be carefully excluded.

From Project Gutenberg

From the condenser, electrical energy is discharged each time the spark discharge passes at a spark gap in the form of electrical oscillations set up in the primary circuit of an oscillation transformer.

From Project Gutenberg

The spark gap should be about 1⁄32′′ and never less than 1⁄64′′.

From Project Gutenberg

Frank sat down at the key and, depressing it, sent a blue-white flame crackling across the spark gap.

From Project Gutenberg

This apparatus acts, as a powerful and effective interrupter and takes the place of the spark gap now used in discharging the condensers for setting up electrical waves.

From Project Gutenberg