Piezoelectric effect

The piezoelectric effect is the ability of certain materials to generate an electric charge when they are mechanically stressed or deformed, such as being compressed or stretched. This occurs because the internal structure of these materials changes slightly when pressure is applied, causing an imbalance of electrical charges. Common applications include sensors, microphones, and actuators, where mechanical movement produces electrical signals or vice versa. The effect is utilized in everyday devices like quartz watches, where the crystal vibrates to keep time accurately. Essentially, it connects mechanical energy and electrical energy in a useful way.