An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics
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When an electric current is sent through the junction between two different conductors or semiconductors, a quantity of heat is liberated or absorbed, depending on the direction of the current. The heat is proportional to the total electric charge crossing the junction. This effect is due to the existence of an electromotive force at the junction.

Named after Jean-Charles Peltier (1785-1845), French physicist and watchmaker, who discovered the effect in 1834; → effect.