Thermoelectric Effects

Thermoelectric effects involve the direct conversion of temperature differences into electrical voltage and vice versa. When one side of a material is heated while the other remains cool, charge carriers (like electrons) move from the hot side to the cold side, creating electricity. Conversely, applying voltage can create a temperature difference. These principles are rooted in non-equilibrium thermodynamics, which studies systems that are not in thermal balance. Thermoelectric materials are useful in applications like power generation from waste heat and cooling devices, emphasizing energy efficiency and sustainable technology.