Yes, a lamp will glow if it is connected between two phases, but the specifics depend on several factors, including the voltage difference between the two phases and the type of lamp.
### Why it Glows Between Two Phases:
In a three-phase power system, the voltage between two phases is known as the **line-to-line voltage**. The line-to-line voltage is typically higher than the voltage between a phase and neutral (the phase-to-neutral voltage).
- For example, in a 400V three-phase system, the line-to-line voltage between two phases (e.g., Phase A and Phase B) is 400V, while the phase-to-neutral voltage is 230V (in many countries).
When a lamp is connected between two phases, it experiences the line-to-line voltage. If this voltage is within the operating range of the lamp, it will glow.
### Important Considerations:
1. **Voltage Rating of the Lamp**:
- **Overvoltage**: If the line-to-line voltage is higher than the rated voltage of the lamp, the lamp will either burn out or have a reduced lifespan.
- **Undervoltage**: If the line-to-line voltage is lower than the lamp's rated voltage, the lamp may not glow or may glow dimly.
For instance, a lamp designed to operate at 230V will likely burn out quickly if connected between two phases in a 400V system, as it will receive too much voltage.
2. **Type of Lamp**:
- **Incandescent Lamps**: These can usually tolerate a range of voltages, but overvoltage will reduce their lifespan and can cause them to burn out.
- **LED or CFL Lamps**: These lamps have specific voltage ratings, and overvoltage can damage the internal electronics, causing them to fail quickly.
- **Fluorescent Lamps**: They typically require specific voltage ballasts, and connecting them between two phases may not allow them to function properly.
3. **Phase Angle Difference**:
- In a three-phase system, each phase is 120 degrees apart. So, the voltage between two phases will be higher than the voltage between a phase and neutral due to the phase shift.
### Example: A 230V Lamp in a 400V System
If you connect a 230V-rated lamp between two phases in a 400V system:
- The lamp will receive 400V, which is higher than its rated voltage.
- It will glow brightly but will likely burn out quickly due to the excessive voltage.
### Conclusion:
Yes, a lamp connected between two phases will glow if the voltage between the phases is within the operating range of the lamp. However, care must be taken to ensure that the lamp's voltage rating is compatible with the line-to-line voltage between the two phases, otherwise it can result in damage or failure.