Fluorescent tubes are fitted with a choke. The choke coils

1. Fluorescent tubes operate by passing an electric current through a gas, which requires specific voltage and current conditions. 2. A choke coil (inductor) is used in the circuit of a fluorescent tube primarily as a ballast. 3. Once the tube strikes (starts conducting), its resistance drops. Without a ballast, the current would increase rapidly, potentially damaging the tube. 4. The choke's inductive reactance limits the AC current flowing through the tube to the appropriate operating level. Therefore, its main function during operation is to reduce current in the circuit. 5. While it also helps generate a high starting voltage in some circuits (with a starter), its continuous function is current limitation.