What would be considered the wasted energy in a typical light bulb?

In a typical light bulb, the wasted energy is primarily in the form of heat energy. When an electric current passes through the filament of an incandescent light bulb, it heats up and produces light. However, a significant portion of the electrical energy consumed is converted into heat rather than light. This heat energy is considered wasted because it does not contribute to the intended purpose of the bulb, which is to illuminate a space.

The inefficiency of incandescent bulbs in converting electrical energy to visible light means that they release more energy as heat than as usable light, making heat energy the clear choice for wasted energy in this context. Understanding this aspect is crucial when considering energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED bulbs, which produce significantly less waste heat while providing more visible light.