Which type of monitor uses liquid crystals to manipulate light?

The type of monitor that uses liquid crystals to manipulate light is a flat panel monitor. Flat panel monitors, particularly those that utilize LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) technology, are designed to be slim and lightweight compared to older technologies. In an LCD monitor, liquid crystals are sandwiched between layers of glass or plastic. When an electric current passes through the crystals, they rearrange to block or allow light to pass through, effectively creating images on the screen.

This technology is a hallmark of flat panel displays, which have largely replaced older types like CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitors due to their efficiency and reduced physical space. While LED monitors may also use liquid crystals in conjunction with LED backlighting to enhance brightness and color, they still fall under the broader category of flat panel technology. Plasma monitors, on the other hand, utilize a different method involving small cells of gas that emit light when energized, and CRT monitors rely on electron beams and phosphorescent surfaces to display images.