Edison Distributing-box. A box used in the Edison “three-wire” system, from which the outlets pass to local circuits.
Edison Lalande Cell. A zinc-copper battery having a depolarizing coating of copper oxide on the copper element, the couple being immersed in an electrolyte composed of potash or caustic soda.
Ediswan. A term applied to the incandescent lamps invented by Edison and Swan and used extensively in Great Britain. Also applied to other apparatus designed by the two inventors.
Efficiency. The relation of work done to the electrical energy absorbed. The efficiency is not equal to the energy absorbed, because it always takes more power to generate a current than is given back in actual efficiency. This is due to mechanical friction and to the resistance of the air in a mechanism such as a dynamo when revolving at high speed.
Efficiency, Electrical. In a generator it is the total electrical energy produced, both that wasted and that actually used in driving machinery or apparatus.
Efflorescence. The dry salts on a jar or vessel containing liquid that collects above the water or evaporation line. This is due to creeping.
Elasticity. A property in some bodies and forces through which they recover their former figure, shape, or dimensions when the external pressure or stress is removed. Water has no elasticity. Air is very elastic; steam has a great volume of elasticity; while electricity is undoubtedly the most elastic of all in its motion through air, water, and other conducting mediums.
Electric. Pertaining to electricity; anything connected with the use of electricity. It has been a much-abused word, and its meaning has been garbled by the impostor, the crook, and the “business thief” in foisting on the public wares in which there was no electrical property whatever. “Electric” toothbrushes, combs, corsets, belts, and the like may contain a few bits of magnetized steel, but they possess no active therapeutic value.
Electrical Engineer. The profession of electrical engineer calls for the highest knowledge of electricity, both theoretical and practical. It embraces the designing and installation of all kinds of electrical apparatus.
Electrician. One versed in the practices and science of electricity; a practical lineman or wireman.