Seebeck effect and inverse Seebeck effect

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In summary, the Seebeck and Inverse Seebeck effects are processes that use temperature differences to create electric currents, and can be induced by applying heat or voltage to a circuit.
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Young Learner
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I just came across Seebeck effect and Inverse Seebeck effect.
It says that when electric current is passed through or if electric voltage is applied between a Seebeck couple heat is dissipated at one end and absorbed at the other.
By assuming that heat dissipation refers to heating and heat absorption referring to cooling (I even doubts whether heat dissipation is heating or cooling) how can a material cool when current is passed through it.
I also want to which type of electric current is passed AC or DC.
Thank You.
 
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The Seebeck effect and Inverse Seebeck effect refer to phenomena where a temperature difference between two points causes an electric current to flow in a circuit. The temperature difference is created by the application of heat (or cooling) to one end of the circuit. In the case of the Seebeck effect, applying heat to one end of the circuit causes the other end to cool down. In the case of the Inverse Seebeck effect, applying a voltage across the circuit will cause the hotter end to dissipate heat and the cooler end to absorb heat. This can be done with either AC or DC current.
 

FAQ: Seebeck effect and inverse Seebeck effect

What is the Seebeck effect?

The Seebeck effect is a phenomenon in thermoelectricity where a temperature difference between two dissimilar conductors or semiconductors produces a voltage difference. This effect is the basis for thermocouples, which are widely used in temperature measurement and control.

How does the Seebeck effect work?

The Seebeck effect is a result of the difference in the energy levels of electrons in the two conductors or semiconductors. When there is a temperature difference between the two materials, the electrons in the hotter material have higher energy and move to the colder material with lower energy, creating a flow of electrons and thus a voltage difference.

What is the inverse Seebeck effect?

The inverse Seebeck effect, also known as the Peltier effect, is the reverse of the Seebeck effect. It is the phenomenon in which an electric current flowing through a junction of two dissimilar materials causes a temperature difference between the materials. This effect is utilized in thermoelectric coolers and refrigerators.

How is the Seebeck effect used in real-life applications?

The Seebeck effect is used in various applications, including thermocouples for temperature measurement, thermoelectric generators for converting heat into electricity, and in thermoelectric coolers and refrigerators. It is also being researched for potential use in renewable energy sources, such as waste heat recovery.

What factors affect the magnitude of the Seebeck effect?

The magnitude of the Seebeck effect is affected by several factors, including the type of materials used, the temperature difference between the materials, and the length and thickness of the materials. It is also influenced by the purity and homogeneity of the materials and the presence of temperature gradients within the materials themselves.

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