carbon arc

noun

1. an electric arc between two carbon electrodes, used mainly for lighting, as in an arc light for a motion-picture projector, or for intense heating, as in the cutting and welding of metals.

noun

1. 1. an electric arc produced between two carbon electrodes, formerly used as a light source
   2. (as modifier)carbon-arc light
2. 1. an electric arc produced between a carbon electrode and material to be welded
   2. (as modifier)carbon-arc welding