Vaping is when a device heats a liquid (often called vape juice or e-liquid) and creates a cloud that is breathed into the lungs. 

Many people call this cloud “vapour”, but it is actually an aerosol. 

Aerosol or Vapour? 

Although the words are often used to mean the same thing, an aerosol is different from vapour. 

An aerosol is made up of tiny droplets floating in the air. 

In a vape, these droplets contain nicotine, flavourings and other ingredients from the vape juice. 

This is one reason why the cloud from a vape is different from water vapour. 

How does a vape work?

Most vapes have three main parts: 

• A battery 

• Vape juice (e-liquid) 

• A heating element 

When the vape is turned on, the battery powers the heating element, which heats the vape juice and creates an aerosol.

Key takeaway

Vaping works by heating vape juice and turning it into an aerosol. 

Unlike water vapour, this aerosol may contain nicotine, flavourings and other chemicals from the vape juice. 

Understanding the difference between vapour and aerosol can help people better understand what they are breathing into their lungs. 

Learn More 

• What’s in a vape?

• Why do vapes have flavours?

• Take the Quiz