A bong is a type of water pipe typically used for smoking cannabis or other herbal substances. It consists of a vertical tube or cylinder with a bowl at the top, a downstem, and a water chamber at the base. Bongs are known for providing a smooth smoking experience due to the water filtration system.

Here’s how a bong generally works:

1. Bowl: The bowl, located at the top of the bong, is where you place the cannabis or other substance to be smoked.
2. Downstem: The downstem is a tube that extends from the bowl into the water chamber. It allows smoke to travel from the bowl to the water.
3. Water Chamber: The water chamber is at the base of the bong and holds water. When you inhale through the mouthpiece, the smoke is pulled through the water, which helps filter and cool it.
4. Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece is where you inhale the smoke after it has passed through the water.

Here’s how to use a bong:

1. Fill the water chamber with enough water to submerge the downstem but not so much that it might splash into the bowl.
2. Grind your cannabis and place it in the bowl.
3. Hold the bong by the neck or base and cover the carb (if applicable).
4. Ignite the cannabis in the bowl while inhaling through the mouthpiece.
5. As you inhale, the smoke will travel through the water, bubbling and filtering it.
6. Once the chamber is filled with enough smoke, release the carb or lift the bowl, and inhale to clear the chamber and inhale the smoke.

Bongs come in various shapes, sizes, materials, and designs, allowing for different smoking experiences. Some popular materials for bongs include glass, acrylic, ceramic, and silicone. Glass bongs are often preferred due to their durability, heat resistance, and the ability to produce clean-tasting smoke.

It’s important to note that the use of bongs and other smoking devices is subject to laws and regulations in different regions. Always follow the local laws and use any smoking apparatus responsibly.