An electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) is a device that heats up the liquid nicotine and flavoring for you to breathe in. There are many varieties of e-cigarettes that go by different names, including vapes, vape pens or sticks, e-hookahs, hookah sticks, mods and personal vaporizers (PVs). They can also be collectively called electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).

Most types of e-cigarettes have:

• A cartridge, tank or pod that holds liquid (can be refillable).
• A heating element for turning the liquid into breathable particles (aerosol, commonly called “vapor”).
• A battery to power the heating element.
• A power or control button (some are activated by sensors when you inhale).
• A mouthpiece to breathe in the aerosol.