What are E Cigarettes and How Do They Work Beginner's Guide An e cigarette is a battery operated device that heats liquid nicotine, flavoring, and other additives to create an aerosol. This JAMA Patient Page describes e cigarettes and the potential health effects of vaping. https: ja.ma 4dbZqrL How The E cigarette Works What parents need to know and do about e cigarettes Harvard Health About E Cigarettes (Vapes) Smoking and Tobacco Use CDC Vaping is the act of inhaling a heated, aerosolized substance. It is critical to distinguish vaping from smoking. Smoking is the inhalation of a burned substance. The main difference between the two