A water pipe, often called a bong, works by filtering smoke through water, cooling it and removing some particulate matter before inhalation.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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The Bowl is Packed: The dry material (e.g., tobacco or cannabis) is placed in the bowl, typically located on a removable slide.
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Ignition: The material in the bowl is lit with a lighter or similar heat source.
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Inhalation Creates Suction: As the user inhales through the mouthpiece, a vacuum is created within the pipe.
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Smoke is Drawn Through Water: The suction pulls the flame and hot air through the material in the bowl, combusting it. The resulting smoke is then drawn down through a downstem (a tube extending from the bowl into the water chamber).
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Bubbling and Filtration: The smoke travels through the downstem and bubbles through the water. This process cools the smoke and filters out some of the ash, particulate matter, and water-soluble compounds. The water acts as a filter, trapping some impurities.
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Smoke Collection: The cooled and partially filtered smoke then rises into the main chamber of the water pipe.
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Inhalation: Finally, the user continues to inhale, drawing the smoke from the chamber and into their lungs. The water filtration reduces the harshness of the smoke, making it smoother to inhale.
In essence, a water pipe leverages the principles of suction and water filtration to deliver a cooler, less harsh smoking experience.
