Reverse piezo effect (used with oscillating quartz crystals)

This effect is utilised in a vibrating quartz crystal:

If an alternating voltage is applied to the electrodes of a quartz crystal, it begins to vibrate mechanically due to the reverse piezo effect. The frequency of this oscillation depends on the geometric properties (e.g. thickness and cutting angle) of the quartz crystal and is typically in the kHz to MHz range.

Significance

This mechanical oscillation is extremely stable and precise. This makes quartz crystals ideal as clock generators in electronic circuits - for example in clocks, microcontrollers, communication devices and frequency generators.

Discovery of the piezoelectric effect

- Discoverer: Jacques and Pierre Curie

- Year: 1880

- Description: The Curie brothers discovered that certain crystals (e.g. quartz, tourmaline, topaz) generate electrical charges on their surfaces during mechanical deformation - this effect became known as the direct piezoelectric effect.

Prediction of the reverse piezoelectric effect

- Theorist: Gabriel Lippmann

- Year: 1881

- Description: Lippmann theorised that due to the reversibility of physical processes, the reverse effect must also exist: An electrical voltage should cause a mechanical deformation in the crystal.

Experimental confirmation of the reverse effect

- Researchers: Jacques and Pierre Curie

- Year: 1881

- Description: Shortly after Lippmann's prediction, the Curie brothers experimentally confirmed that crystals do indeed deform mechanically under electrical voltage - the reverse piezoelectric effect was thus proven.

It is very exciting to learn that oscillating quartz uses a basic technology that was discovered by the Curie brothers over 145 years ago.

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