A thumb lighter, also referred to as a flint lighter or a Zippo lighter, is a transportable gadget that produces a flame for ignition. It consists of a steel or plastic physique containing a gasoline reservoir, a flint striker, and a wick. To make use of a thumb lighter, maintain it upright and flick the flint striker towards the serrated wheel to create sparks, which ignite the gasoline vapor and lightweight the wick.
Thumb lighters are generally used for lighting cigarettes, candles, and campfires. They’re additionally widespread amongst collectors and lovers on account of their sturdiness, reliability, and iconic design. The primary thumb lighter was invented in 1823 by Johann Wolfgang Dobereiner, a German chemist. Dobereiner’s lighter used hydrogen and platinum to provide a flame. Over time, thumb lighters have advanced in design and performance, however the primary precept of operation stays the identical.