Definition

1. Noun:
   • The generation of electricity or electric polarization in certain crystalline materials when they are subjected to mechanical stress or pressure. This is a direct physical effect where applying force to the material creates an electric charge.
   • Conversely, the mechanical deformation or change in shape of such materials when an external electric field is applied to them. This is the reverse of the primary effect.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The piezoelectric effect is used in quartz watches to keep precise time.
  • Microphones often utilize the piezoelectric effect to convert sound waves (pressure) into electrical signals.
  • Applying a voltage to the crystal demonstrated the reverse piezoelectric effect, causing it to vibrate.

Advanced Usage

• "Direct piezoelectric effect": Specifically refers to the generation of an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress.
  • The direct piezoelectric effect is the principle behind many pressure sensors.
• "Reverse/Converse piezoelectric effect": Specifically refers to the mechanical deformation produced by an applied electric field.
  • The reverse piezoelectric effect is exploited in devices like ultrasonic transducers and precise actuators.

Variants and Related Words

• Piezoelectricity (n): The electric charge that accumulates in certain solid materials in response to applied mechanical stress; the phenomenon or property itself.
  • Piezoelectricity is a key property of materials like quartz.
• Piezoelectric (adj): Describing a material that exhibits the piezoelectric effect or a device that operates using it.
  • This is a piezoelectric crystal. The device has a piezoelectric element.
• Piezoelectrically (adv): In a manner relating to or using the piezoelectric effect.
  • The signal was generated piezoelectrically.

Synonyms

• Electromechanical coupling: A broader term for the interaction between electrical and mechanical systems, which includes the piezoelectric effect.
• Piezo effect: A common informal shortening.

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Piezoelectric sensor: A device that uses the effect to measure changes in pressure, acceleration, or force.
• Piezoelectric actuator: A device that uses the reverse effect to create precise mechanical movements.
• Piezoelectric material: A substance, such as quartz or certain ceramics, that exhibits the piezoelectric effect.

Noun

1. electricity produced by mechanical pressure on certain crystals (notably quartz or Rochelle salt); alternatively, electrostatic stress produces a change in the linear dimensions of the crystal