The thermoelectric effect refers to the direct conversion of temperature differences to electric voltage and vice versa, enabling the generation of electricity from heat gradients or the use of electric power for heating or cooling. It encompasses phenomena such as the Seebeck effect, Peltier effect, and Thomson effect, which are harnessed in applications ranging from power generation to temperature control in electronic devices.

Thermoelectric Effect

thermoelectric effect

conversion of temperature differences to electric voltage

generation of electricity from heat gradients

use of electric power for heating or cooling

The Seebeck effect is a phenomenon where a voltage is generated across two dissimilar conductors or semiconductors when there is a temperature difference between them. This effect is the basis for thermoelectric generators, which convert heat directly into electrical energy, and is crucial in temperature sensing applications like thermocouples.

Seebeck effect

The Peltier effect is a thermoelectric phenomenon where heat is absorbed or released at the junction of two different conductors when an electric current passes through. This effect is utilized in thermoelectric cooling and heating applications, where temperature control is achieved without moving parts or refrigerants.

Peltier effect

The Thomson effect describes the phenomenon where a temperature gradient along a conductor carrying an electric current results in the absorption or evolution of heat, depending on the direction of the current relative to the temperature gradient. This effect is one of the three thermoelectric effects, alongside the Seebeck and Peltier effects, and it provides insights into the relationship between thermal and electrical conductivities in materials.

Thomson effect

Power generation is the process of producing electricity from various energy sources, such as fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewables like wind, solar, and hydroelectric. It involves converting different forms of energy into electrical energy using technologies that range from traditional steam turbines to advanced photovoltaic cells.

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