Definition

The production of electric charge in certain materials when they are heated or cooled.

Example

Pyroelectricity is used in some sensors to detect changes in temperature.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of pyroelectricity?

Yeah, it’s that cool phenomenon where crystals generate electricity with temperature changes, right?

Exactly! I read that it can be used in sensors and energy harvesting.

That sounds fascinating; I’d love to learn more about its applications.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pyroelectricity → It is formed from "pyro-" (from Greek "pur", meaning fire) and "electricity" (from New Latin "electricitas", meaning the property of producing electric charge). The term describes the generation of electric charge in certain materials when they are heated, hence relating fire to electricity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fire' ('pyro-') creating 'electric charge' ('electricity') — that's how pyroelectricity works.

Visually Confused Words