After light is generated by an arc lamp, it typically travels in various directions. However, if we consider the most immediate path, the light initially spreads out in all directions from the source, creating what is known as an omnidirectional light emission.
The specific direction the light takes after being generated depends on the design and orientation of the lamp. In most cases, the light from an arc lamp is directed and controlled using reflectors or lenses to shape the light beam and guide it towards a desired target or area.
For example, in a typical desk lamp with an arc lamp as its light source, the light emitted from the lamp would first encounter a reflector or lens system that helps focus the light in a specific direction, such as downward onto the desk surface or upward for ambient illumination.
Similarly, in other applications, such as stage lighting or projection systems, additional optical components like lenses, filters, or mirrors are used to shape and control the light beam in different ways according to the specific lighting requirements.
So, to summarize, immediately after being generated by an arc lamp, the light initially spreads out in all directions. However, it is often controlled and directed using reflectors, lenses, or other optical components to guide the light towards the desired target or area.