= Thermionic converter
{wiki=Thermionic_converter}
A thermionic converter is a device that converts thermal energy directly into electrical energy through the process of thermionic emission. This phenomenon occurs when electrons are emitted from a heated material (usually a metal or semiconductor) into a vacuum or low-pressure environment. The basic principle of a thermionic converter involves heating a cathode (the electron-emitting electrode) to a high temperature, enough to provide the thermal energy required for electrons to overcome the work function of the material.
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