An electronic cigarette or e-cig is a cigarette shaped device. Its purpose is to give the user inhaled doses of nicotine.
The e-cig usually comes in 3 parts, the cartridge which is the mouthpiece, the heating element which is the atomizer and finally the battery and electronics.
The cartridge contains the liquid nicotine. This can either be refilled with nicotine after use, or in some models replaced.
The heating element vaporizes the liquid nicotine from the cartridge. This part lasts around a month, although brands vary. Some e-cigs have a combined atomizer and pre-filled disposable part called a cartomizer.
The final part of the electronic cigarette is the battery and electronics. Most batteries will be rechargable and will have a sensor that automatically starts the heating element. The electronics include a saftely device that prevents overheating. This part also provides a authentic looking glowing tip.
The e-cig gives the user doses of nicotine, but without the smoke and dangerous chemicals. When inhalation takes place a water vapour is produced, so that the vapour and the glowing tip make it look and feel like the real thing.
