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Behind the discovery of the thermoelectric effect! Do you know how heat energy is converted into electricity?
In our daily lives, the thermoelectric effect allows us to convert thermal energy into electricity. The working principles of this process involve a variety of physical phenomena, including the Seebeck, Peltier and Thomson effects. These effects have not only changed the scientific understanding of heat and electricity, but also led us to develop many innovative technologies and applications.
Thermoelectric effect is the process by which a temperature difference is directly converted into a voltage and can be used to generate electricity, measure temperature, or change the temperature of an object.
Theoretical basis of thermoelectric effect
The thermoelectric effect is essentially a process of generating voltage based on temperature difference. It is divided into three effects: Seebeck effect, Peltier effect and Thomson effect. The Seebeck effect is the generation of an electromotive force in a conductor when there is a temperature difference between two points. This proportionality of the electromotive force to the temperature difference is called the Seebeck coefficient, a phenomenon rediscovered in 1821 by the Russian-German physicist Seebeck, who observed the thermomagnetic effect between dissimilar metals.
The Seebeck effect allows temperature differences to be converted into a measurable voltage or current.
Thermoelectric effect in practical applications
In practical applications, the thermoelectric effect has great potential. An important application area is thermoelectric coolers, which can effectively cool equipment without the need for electric motors or fluid circulation. Many small refrigerators, heat sinks for electronic devices, and even solar power systems use this technology.
Thermoelectric coolers are simple and flexible, but relatively inefficient.
Peltier effect and applications
The importance of the Peltier effect in thermoelectric technology cannot be ignored. When an electric current passes through the junction of two dissimilar materials, heating or cooling occurs. This effect can be used to create a well-defined temperature difference when designing a thermoelectric cooler or heater, for applications such as cooling and heating of electronic devices. Its ease of operation and maintenance makes this technology popular.
Future Prospects for Thermoelectric Technology
With the advancement of science and technology, thermoelectric technology has good development prospects in improving energy efficiency. We are now at a stage of innovative research into thermoelectric materials, the properties of which directly affect the efficiency of thermoelectric devices.
Future thermoelectric materials may enable more efficient energy conversion, thereby promoting the development of sustainable energy.
The thermoelectric effect is not just a concept in physics; it plays a key role in future energy technology. Perhaps we should think about how to use this technology to achieve more environmentally friendly energy use and more efficient thermal energy conversion?
