carbon arc

noun

1. an electric arc between two carbon electrodes, used mainly for lighting, as in an arc light for a motion-picture projector, or for intense heating, as in the cutting and welding of metals.

carbon arc

noun

1. 1. an electric arc produced between two carbon electrodes, formerly used as a light source
   2. ( as modifier )

      carbon-arc light

2. 1. an electric arc produced between a carbon electrode and material to be welded
   2. ( as modifier )

      carbon-arc welding

Word History and Origins

Origin of carbon arc¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

We utilize a carbon arc lamp, which has considerable ultraviolet light in it.

From Project Gutenberg

Great improvements have also been made in inclined carbon arc lamps.

From Project Gutenberg

Wastes removed would be destroyed by passage through a carbon arc after innumerable previous sterilizing processes.

From Project Gutenberg

The light, once used for night purse seine fishing, was powered by a carbon arc.

From Project Gutenberg

The luminous output of such lamps is much greater than that of an ordinary carbon arc using the same amount of electrical energy.

From Project Gutenberg