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pyroelectricity

pyroelectricity

9.9
Some crystals make an electric charge when their temperature changes
  • noun
  • /ˌpaɪroʊɪˈlɛktrɪsɪti/
  • Specialized
: piroelectricidad
  • The process of pyroelectricity enables certain crystals to generate an electric charge when their temperature changes.

Examples

  • One of the least-known properties of solid materials, pyroelectricity is rigorously defined as the temperature dependence of the spontaneous polarization in certain anisotropic solids.

    Academic text (2005)
  • This treatment of pyroelectricity in terms of a change in net dipole moment emerged in modern times.

    Academic text (2005)
  • Pyroelectricity has been known for 24 centuries.

    Academic text (2005)
  • A more quantitative understanding of pyroelectricity emerged during the 19th century as more sophisticated research techniques were developed.

    Academic text (2005)
  • In 1824, David Brewster, famous for his work in optics, was the first author to use the term "pyroelectricity."

    Academic text (2005)
  • In 1717, the physician and chemist Louis Lemery wrote the first scientific description of pyroelectricity in a journal.

    Academic text (2005)
  • Then interest in pyroelectricity virtually vanished until 1938, when Yeou Ta published a paper that initiated the great growth that continues in the field today.

    Academic text (2005)
  • William Thomson (Lord Kelvin) published the first major theoretical treatment of pyroelectricity in 1878; his paper included a prediction of the electrocaloric effect.

    Academic text (2005)
  • Scientists are studying how pyroelectricity can be utilized in devices for efficient energy conversion.

  • Understanding pyroelectricity is essential for developing sensors that monitor temperature variations.

Surface Forms

Morphology

pyroelectricity = pyroelectric (semi-transparent) = pyro + electric + ity

The word is built transparently from 'pyro' + 'electric' + '-ity', but the full scientific meaning is specialized and may not be fully predictable for a B1 learner.

Etymology

The word pyroelectricity joins pyro- meaning 'heat' or 'fire' and electricity meaning 'electric charge'. So, pyroelectricity is the electric charge a material makes when its temperature changes.