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What is a vape or electronic cigarette and how does it work?
A vape or electronic cigarette is a device that heats an e-liquid to produce vapour, without burning tobacco. In this guide you will learn its main parts and how it works step by step.
This content is intended for adult smokers who want to understand vaping in a clear and responsible way. Vaping is not intended for minors or non-smokers.
Back to indexWhat is a vape?
A vape, also known as an electronic cigarette or e-cigarette, is an electronic device that heats vape liquid to produce vapour. Unlike a traditional cigarette, it does not burn tobacco or paper.
Its use is intended for adult smokers looking for a non-combustion alternative. This does not mean vaping is risk-free or suitable for everyone: some liquids contain nicotine, an addictive substance.
Key idea
An electronic cigarette does not work by combustion. It heats e-liquid with a coil to produce vapour.
How is vapour produced?
Understanding how a vape works helps you use it better, avoid burnt taste and extend coil life.
1
Wicking
The cotton inside the coil absorbs e-liquid from the tank through capillarity.
2
Activation
When you press the button, or inhale on automatic devices, the battery sends power to the coil.
3
Vapour production
The coil heats the e-liquid held in the cotton and turns it into vapour.
Main parts of an electronic cigarette
Although there are many vape formats, most devices share a basic structure: battery, tank or pod, coil, mouthpiece and activation system.
Battery
Provides the power needed to heat the coil. It may be built in or use external batteries, depending on the device.
Tank or pod
This is the part that holds the e-liquid. In pod systems it is usually called a pod; in traditional kits, tank or atomizer.
Coil
The coil includes cotton and a heating element. It is a consumable part that needs to be replaced with use.
Mouthpiece and airflow
The mouthpiece lets you inhale vapour. Airflow controls whether the draw is tighter or more open.
Visual learning
Internal mechanics
Step-by-step internal view of a basic vaping device.
What to expect from vaping
General explanation about vaping devices, with subtitles available depending on YouTube settings.
Note about the purpose of vaping
Electronic cigarettes are intended for adult smokers looking for a non-combustion alternative to tobacco. They are not intended for minors, non-smokers, pregnant women or users with medical concerns without first consulting a healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions about vapes
Is there a difference between a vape and an electronic cigarette?
In common use, both terms usually refer to the same type of device: an electronic device that heats e-liquid to produce vapour.
Does a vape burn tobacco?
No. A vape does not burn tobacco. It heats e-liquid with a coil to produce vapour, so it works differently from a traditional cigarette.
What are the main parts of an electronic cigarette?
The most common parts are battery, tank or pod, coil, mouthpiece and activation system. Depending on the model, some parts may be integrated.
Does the vapour come directly from the liquid?
Vapour is produced when the coil heats the e-liquid absorbed by the cotton. To avoid burnt taste, the coil should be properly saturated before use.
Ready for the next step? Learn about the differences between smoking and vaping.
Go to chapter 2: vaping, health and science