How would you calculate the energy generated by a thermocouple?

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SUMMARY

The energy generated by a thermocouple is directly influenced by its dimensions, temperature gradient, and material properties. In this discussion, a thermocouple measuring 2 inches wide and half a meter long with a temperature gradient of 2000 degrees Celsius is examined. The potential difference produced varies based on the specific materials used, and the possibility of using a non-metal plasma as a secondary conductor is raised, although it requires further investigation into manufacturer specifications and material properties. For accurate calculations, referencing the thermoelectric effect is essential.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermoelectric effect principles
  • Familiarity with thermocouple materials and their properties
  • Knowledge of temperature gradient impacts on electrical output
  • Ability to interpret manufacturer specifications for thermocouples
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  • Research the thermoelectric effect in detail
  • Explore different thermocouple materials and their voltage outputs
  • Investigate the feasibility of using non-metal plasmas in thermoelectric applications
  • Learn how to calculate potential difference based on temperature gradients
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Engineers, physicists, and researchers interested in thermoelectric energy generation and thermocouple applications.

Warpspeed13
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Say you had a thermocouple 2" wide by half a meter long and the temperature gradient was 2000 degrees Celsius how much electricity would it generate? If it was hot enough could a non metal plasma be used as the secondary conductor rather than a second type of metal?
 
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You would look up the manufacturers specs.
The relationship between the temperature gradient and the potential difference depends on what the material is made of, and will also be different for different temperatures.
There is just not enough information from what you have given.

You may be thinking of:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermoelectric_effect
 

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