What Is The Difference Between These Dielectric Terms?

In summary, the conversation discusses the difference between three dielectric terms - dielectric constant, relative dielectric constant, and dielectric loss. The conversation also mentions the use of "δ" and "εr'" on a website and asks for the derivation of an equation involving these terms. The main point is that a dielectric introduces changes in capacitance and resistance, leading to the inclusion of "δ" in the equation.
  • #1
FredericChopin
101
0
What Is The Difference Between These "Dielectric" Terms?

Can someone please explain to me what the difference between these terms are?

1. Dielectric constant
2. Relative dielectric constant
3. Dielectric loss

I came across them on this website:

http://www.lsbu.ac.uk/water/microwave.html#pen

Also, I don't really know what "δ" and "εr'" on the website are meant to represent.

All and any help would be appreciated.

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Also, does anyone know the derivation to the equation:

$$\alpha = \frac{2 \pi }{ \lambda } \sqrt[]{ \frac{ \varepsilon_r \sqrt[]{1 + tan^{2} \delta } - 1}{2} }$$

, which is also on the website?

Thank you.
 
  • #3
An ideal capacitor has no losses, a dielectric introduced between the plates just changes the total capacitance in proportion to the relative dielectric constant.

An non-ideal dielectric also introduces a loss, which we represent by a resistance between the plates. So the real capacitor shows both capacitance and resistance; I think that leads to the angle you have there, δ.
 

1. What is the difference between dielectric constant and dielectric strength?

The dielectric constant, also known as relative permittivity, is a measure of how well a material can store electrical energy in an electric field. It is a dimensionless quantity and is directly related to the material's ability to polarize in the presence of an electric field. On the other hand, dielectric strength is a measure of the maximum electric field a material can withstand before breaking down and allowing current to flow through it. It is typically measured in units of volts per meter (V/m).

2. How is dielectric constant related to capacitance?

Dielectric constant is directly related to capacitance, which is the ability of a material to store electrical charge. The higher the dielectric constant, the higher the capacitance. This is because a material with a higher dielectric constant can hold more charge for a given applied voltage, making it more efficient at storing electrical energy.

3. What is the difference between dielectric strength and breakdown voltage?

Dielectric strength and breakdown voltage are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two. Dielectric strength is the maximum electric field a material can withstand before breaking down, while breakdown voltage is the minimum voltage required to cause a breakdown in the material. In other words, breakdown voltage is a specific measure of dielectric strength, while dielectric strength is a general term for a material's overall ability to withstand electric fields.

4. What is the role of dielectric materials in electronic devices?

Dielectric materials play a crucial role in electronic devices by acting as insulators and preventing the flow of electrical current between different components. They also help to increase the capacitance of electronic components, making them more efficient at storing and manipulating electrical energy. Additionally, dielectric materials are used in the manufacturing of capacitors, which are essential components in many electronic devices.

5. What factors affect the dielectric properties of a material?

The dielectric properties of a material are affected by several factors, including its chemical composition, temperature, and frequency of the applied electric field. Generally, materials with higher polarizability, such as those with more free electrons or polar molecules, have higher dielectric constants. Temperature can also affect the dielectric properties of a material, with some materials exhibiting a decrease in dielectric constant as temperature increases. Additionally, the frequency of the applied electric field can also affect a material's dielectric properties, with some materials having higher dielectric constants at lower frequencies and vice versa.

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