PhysicsChapter 11: Medical Imaging
Piezoelectric Effect
The piezoelectric effect
Definition
The piezoelectric effect is the production of an electric potential difference across certain materials when they are mechanically stressed or deformed.
Formula / Key Relation
Certain crystalline and ceramic materials possess piezoelectric properties. When such a material is: compressed / stretched / mechanically stressed its internal charge distribution changes. This can produce a measurable potential difference across the material. This is called the direct piezoelectric effect. Piezoelectric materials are important in ultrasound transducers because they allow mechanical vibrations to be converted into electrical signals. At this level, remember the conceptual relationship: **Mechanical stress → electrical response**
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Review the key facts, formulas and checks before you move on.Piezoelectric Effect
Sticky Notes · Quick Revision
PIEZOELECTRIC
- PRESS → ELECTRIC
- Mechanical → Electrical
60-second revision
- Stress a piezoelectric material → electric potential is produced.
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