ther·mo·cou·ple (thûr m -k p l)n. A thermoelectric device used to measure temperatures accurately, especially one consisting of two dissimilar metals joined so that a potential difference generated between the points of contact is a measure of the temperature difference between the points. |
thermocouple [ˈθɜːməʊˌkʌpəl]
n
1. (Physics / General Physics) a device for measuring temperature consisting of a pair of wires of different metals or semiconductors joined at both ends. One junction is at the temperature to be measured, the second at a fixed temperature. The electromotive force generated depends upon the temperature difference
2. (Physics / General Physics) a similar device with only one junction between two dissimilar metals or semiconductors
[from thermo- + couple]
| thermocouple (thûrm-kpl) A thermoelectric device used to make accurate measurements of temperatures, especially high temperatures. It consists of a circuit having two wires of different metals or metal alloys welded together. A temperature gradient across the junction of the wires gives rise to an electric potential by the Seebeck effect. This potential varies with the strength of the temperature gradient and can be measured by a voltmeter. Thermocouples can also be used to generate small amounts of electricity for powering other devices. |
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| Noun | 1. | thermocouple - a kind of thermometer consisting of two wires of different metals that are joined at both ends; one junction is at the temperature to be measured and the other is held at a fixed lower temperature; the current generated in the circuit is proportional to the temperature difference thermometer - measuring instrument for measuring temperature |
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