Seebeck Coefficeints: Definition, Significance & Thermocouple Image

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In summary, Seebeck coefficients are a measure of how a material functions thermoelectrically and are represented as S. They are non-linear and dependent on factors such as temperature, material, and molecular structure. More information and reliable resources can be found on various websites and publications.
  • #1
chound
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what are Seebeck coefficeints? What do they signify?
Does anyone have a pic of a thermocouple?
What is thermopower?
 
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The thermopower, thermoelectric power, or Seebeck coefficient of a material describes how it functions thermoelectrically.

The Seebeck coefficients, represented as S, are non-linear, and depend on the conductors' absolute temperature, material, and molecular structure.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seebeck_effect

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seebeck_coefficient

But perhaps more reliable resources:

http://www.thermoelectrics.com/introduction.htm [Broken]

http://www.its.caltech.edu/~jsnyder/thermoelectrics/
http://www.its.caltech.edu/~jsnyder/thermoelectrics/science_page.htm [Broken]

http://www.chem.cornell.edu/fjd3/thermo/intro.html [Broken]

http://www.iit.upco.es/palacios/thermo/ some publications in pdf

http://www.electracool.com/basics.htm
 
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  • #3


Seebeck coefficients are a measure of the thermoelectric effect, which is the conversion of temperature differences into electrical energy. Specifically, they represent the ratio of the induced voltage to the temperature gradient in a material. This effect was first discovered by Thomas Johann Seebeck in 1821, and the coefficients are named after him.

The significance of Seebeck coefficients lies in their use in thermoelectric devices, such as thermocouples. These devices utilize the thermoelectric effect to measure temperature differences and generate electricity. The Seebeck coefficients of different materials can vary greatly, making it possible to create thermocouples with different sensitivities and temperature ranges.

As for a picture of a thermocouple, I do not have one readily available, but a quick online search should provide several examples.

Thermopower, also known as thermoelectric power or thermoelectricity, is another term for the Seebeck coefficient. It represents the strength of the thermoelectric effect in a material.
 

1. What is the definition of Seebeck Coefficients?

The Seebeck Coefficients refer to the measure of the magnitude of the thermoelectric effect, which is the production of an electric potential difference when two dissimilar metals are brought into contact.

2. Why are Seebeck Coefficients significant?

Seebeck Coefficients are significant because they allow us to measure and understand the thermoelectric properties of a material. This information is crucial for various applications, such as thermocouples, which are used to measure temperature in many industries.

3. What is the significance of thermocouple images in relation to Seebeck Coefficients?

Thermocouple images visually represent the temperature distribution across a material and can help identify any potential irregularities or hot spots, which can affect the accuracy of the Seebeck Coefficients measurement.

4. How is the Seebeck Coefficient calculated?

The Seebeck Coefficient is calculated by measuring the temperature difference between the two ends of a material and the resulting voltage difference. The ratio of these two values is the Seebeck Coefficient, expressed in units of microvolts per degree Celsius (μV/°C).

5. What are some factors that can affect Seebeck Coefficients?

The Seebeck Coefficients can be affected by various factors, including the composition and purity of the materials used, the temperature difference between the two ends, and the type of contact between the two materials. Other external factors such as mechanical stress and magnetic fields can also influence the Seebeck Coefficients.

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