A
lighter is a portable device used to create a flame, and to ignite
a variety of combustible materials, such as cigars, gas stoves,
fireworks, candles, or cigarettes. It consists of metal or plastic
container filled with a flammable fluid or pressurized liquid gas,
a means of ignition to produce the flame, and some provision for
extinguishing the flame. Alternatively, a lighter can be powered by
electricity, using an electric arc or heating element to ignite the
target.
A disposable lighter is usually relatively inexpensive, made of
plastic and is filled with a one-time-use fuel. Unlike other types
of lighters, the disposable cannot be refilled and is usually just
thrown away when empty. The lighters generally use a flint and
wheel spark and a supply of gaseous fuel that comes from within the
lighter as long as the thumb button is depressed. The average
disposable lighter is not very effective in windy situations and is
generally made with less durable materials. Still, these lighters
are very popular because of their price and the wide range of
designs they are available in.
