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piezoelectric

 
Sci-Tech Dictionary: piezoelectric
(pē¦ā·zō·ə′lek·trik)

(solid-state physics) Having the ability to generate a voltage when mechanical force is applied, or to produce a mechanical force when a voltage is applied, as in a piezoelectric crystal.


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Computer Desktop Encyclopedia: piezoelectric
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The property of certain crystals that causes them to produce voltage when a mechanical pressure is applied to them such as sound vibrations. This technique is used to build crystal microphones, phonograph cartridges and strain gauges, all of which turn mechanical movement into voltage.

The piezoelectric effect also works in reverse, causing an oscillation when the material is subjected to electrical pressure (voltage). For example, earphones and inkjet nozzles are made with piezoelectric materials. See inkjet printer.

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Geological Glossary: Piezoelectric
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Describes a substance that becomes electrically charged by pressure; it can only occur in certain crystals belonging to classes of low symmetry. Always associated with pyroelectrlclty.


WordNet: piezoelectric
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Note: click on a word meaning below to see its connections and related words.

The adjective has one meaning:

Meaning #1: relating to or involving piezoelectricity
  Pertains to noun: piezoelectricity (meaning #1)


 
 

 

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Sci-Tech Dictionary. McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms. Copyright © 2003, 1994, 1989, 1984, 1978, 1976, 1974 by McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.  Read more
Computer Desktop Encyclopedia. THIS COPYRIGHTED DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY.
All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.
© 1981-2009 Computer Language Company Inc.  All rights reserved.  Read more
Geological Glossary. Peterson Field Guide to Rocks and Minerals, by Frederick H. Pough. Copyright © 1998 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.  Read more
WordNet. WordNet 1.7.1 Copyright © 2001 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.  Read more