Only 10% of energy in an incandescent light bulb is used to create light. The other 90% of a light bulb’s energy creates heat. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), on the other hand, use about 80% less electricity than conventional bulbs and last up to 12 times as long.

Black History Fact: Lewis Latimer (1848–1928) was a member of Thomas Edison’s research team and became the head draftsman for General Electric. Latimer did the draft work for Alexander Graham Bell’s telephone; Bell received his patent in 1876. In 1882, Latimer invented a carbon filament to use in light bulbs. It lasted longer and was cheaper than Edison’s first design. Edison’s company hired Latimer soon after.