Question

How is the seebeck coefficient a measure of the energy carried across the material by the electrons?

a) The Seebeck coefficient measures the electron density in the material.
b) The Seebeck coefficient measures the temperature difference between two points in the material.
c) The Seebeck coefficient measures the voltage generated per unit temperature difference in the material.
d) The Seebeck coefficient measures the thermal conductivity of the material.

Answer 1

The Seebeck coefficient measures the voltage generated per unit temperature difference in a material. It quantifies the relationship between temperature difference and the electrical potential difference or voltage produced as a result of it.The correct option is option c.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Seebeck coefficient measures the voltage generated per unit temperature difference in a material. It quantifies the relationship between temperature difference and the electrical potential difference or voltage produced as a result of it.

When a temperature gradient is applied across a material, it causes a difference in electron energy levels. This energy difference leads to the migration of electrons from the hotter region to the cooler region, creating an electric field. The Seebeck coefficient, denoted as S, is a measure of the ratio between the induced voltage and the temperature difference. It is defined as S = V/ΔT, where S is the Seebeck coefficient, V is the induced voltage, and ΔT is the temperature difference.

For example, if we have a material with a high Seebeck coefficient, a small temperature difference can generate a significant voltage and, in turn, carry more energy across the material through the movement of electrons.