Thermoelectric effect (source code)

= Thermoelectric effect
{wiki}

A <thermoelectric effect> couples <heat transfer> and the transport of <electric charge>: a <temperature gradient> can generate an <electromotive force>, while an <electric current> can carry <heat> and cause heating or cooling at a junction of different materials. This coupling makes electrical measurement of <temperature> possible through a <thermocouple>, and permits conversion of a sustained flow of <heat> into electrical <work>. A finite open-circuit voltage does not itself deliver <power>: electrical <power> requires an <electric current> through a load. Thermoelectric conversion therefore involves both <electromagnetism> and <thermodynamics>. https://thermoelectrics.matsci.northwestern.edu/thermoelectrics/history.html[Northwestern thermoelectrics research group: thermoelectric effects and applications]{ref}.