A bong, also known as a water pipe or water bong, is a type of smoking device used to inhale smoke from burning herbs or tobacco. Here's a description of its typical components and usage:

1. Main Structure: Bongs are usually made of glass, acrylic, silicone, or ceramic. They consist of a base that holds water, a chamber (often in the shape of a tube or beaker) above the waterline, and a mouthpiece through which the user inhales the smoke.

2. Bowl: At the top of the bong's chamber, there's a bowl where the smoking material (such as cannabis flower or tobacco) is placed. The bowl is typically removable to facilitate loading and cleaning.

3. Downstem: A downstem is a tube that extends from the bowl down into the water in the base of the bong. It allows smoke to travel from the bowl into the water, where it's cooled and filtered before being inhaled.

4. Water Filtration: The base of the bong is filled with water, which serves as a filtration system. As the smoke passes through the water, it's cooled, which can make the smoking experience smoother and less harsh on the throat and lungs. The water also filters out some of the larger particles and impurities from the smoke.

5. Carb Hole (Optional): Some bongs feature a carb hole, a small opening usually located on the side of the chamber. The user covers the carb hole while inhaling to draw smoke into the chamber and then releases it to clear the chamber of smoke.

6. Usage: To use a bong, the user first fills the base with water, ensuring that the downstem is submerged. Next, they pack the bowl with their smoking material. The user then applies heat to the bowl (typically using a lighter or a match) while simultaneously inhaling through the mouthpiece. This creates a vacuum that pulls the smoke down into the water and up through the chamber, where it can be inhaled through the mouthpiece.