Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are changing the way we live. They use a fraction of the energy that traditional bulbs do, and last up to ten times longer. This makes them the most energy efficient lighting technology available. LEDs also generate very little waste heat, so they can safely be placed in hot environments.

LEDs are small and can be used in almost any application that requires a light source. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, and can be grouped together to create different types of lights. Some common types of LED lights are A-shaped, which are the most common and look like standard light bulbs. Others are more compact and may include a reflector that can change the shape of the beam of light. Still others are more like mini-LED lamps, which can be used in places where space is limited.

While the first LEDs were used as indicator lights on circuit boards, they soon found a home in streetlights, replacing fluorescent bulbs. They are also popular in signs, because they can display more information than traditional bulbs and require less power to operate. The second generation of LEDs, which became available in the 80s and 90s, were even more durable and energy efficient than the first, making them a favorite for both businesses and homeowners alike.

The key difference between incandescent and LED lighting is that LEDs emit light via a regulated process. Incandescent filaments haphazardly throw out many wavelengths of light, but LEDs produce light through a process called recombination, in which electrons flowing in one direction combine with holes – currents that flow via the absence of electrons – flowing in the other direction. This produces a narrow range of light frequencies, from infrared to the visible spectrum and into the ultraviolet. By selecting the right semiconductor materials, single-color LEDs can be produced that cover the full spectrum, from red to blue.

LEDs also offer a number of other benefits that make them attractive to businesses and individuals. They consume up to 90% less energy than incandescent or halogen bulbs and up to 60% less than old fluorescent bulbs, which translates into instant cost savings. Plus, they can last up to 25,000 hours, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them as often.

They also don’t give off much heat, so they can be safely used in areas where thermal management is a concern, such as near computer monitors and other equipment that generates a lot of waste heat. And they are safe for touch, meaning that they can be used in children’s toys and other sensitive devices.

There are also LEDs that emit other frequencies of light, such as infrared and UV, which can be useful for things like illuminating certain artwork or documents without damaging them. They’re also useful for security and safety, such as illuminating escape routes in an emergency, or for disinfection, as they can kill bacteria.