Conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy

Principle

This experiment shows that a thermogenerator can produce electric energy from thermal energy. The  thermal tension of a thermogenerator depends on the temperature difference across the element.

Benefits

• Experiment is part of a complete solution set with a total of 17 experiments for Renewable Energy Basics and Heat energy
• Direct protection of the thermocouple against overheating due to fixed aluminum plates
• Additional aluminum block for storage of heat energy

Tasks

Is it possible to generate electric energy with the help of only one finger?

To examine this question a thermocouple is used in this experiment. The thermocouple is made up of a so-called "Peltierelement"which is assembled between two thin plates made of aluminium. Observe what happens when the upper aluminium plate, is warmed up by a finger.

 Learning objectives

• Thermocouple
• conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy