Electronic cigarette
An electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or vape[note 1][1] is a device that simulates tobacco smoking. It consists of an atomizer, a power source such as a battery, and a container such as a cartridge or tank. Instead of smoke, the user inhales vapor.[2] As such, using an e-cigarette is often called "vaping".[3] The atomizer is a heating element that vaporizes a liquid solution called e-liquid,[4] which quickly cools into an aerosol of tiny droplets, vapor and air.[5] The vapor mainly comprises propylene glycol and/or glycerin, usually with nicotine and flavoring. Its exact composition varies, and depends on several things including user behavior.[note 2]
"Vape" redirects here. For the Argentine reconnaissance vehicle, see VAPE.
E-cigarettes are activated by taking a puff or pressing a button.[3][6] Some look like traditional cigarettes,[3][7] and most kinds are reusable.[note 3]
Nicotine is highly addictive.[9][10][11] Users become physically and psychologically dependent.[12] Scientists do not know how harmful e-cigarettes are over the long-term[13][14] because it is hard to separate the effects of vaping from the effects of smoking when so many people both vape and smoke.[note 4][15] E-cigarettes have not been used widely enough or for long enough to be sure.[16][17][18]
Vaping is likely far less harmful than smoking, but still harmful.[19][20][21] E-cigarette vapor contains fewer toxins than cigarette smoke, at lower concentrations. The vapor contains traces of harmful substances not found in cigarette smoke.[21] E-cigarettes containing nicotine are more effective than nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for smoking cessation.[22][23] However, e-cigarettes have not been subject to the same rigorous testing that most nicotine replacement therapy products have,[24] and health warnings may encourage a smoker to quit vaping.[25]
(PDF). California Tobacco Control Program. California Department of Public Health. January 2015. pp. 1–21.
This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
