What happens to the electrical potential of a thermocouple when the temperature of the junction increases?

• A. It decreases.
• B. It stabilizes.
• C. It increases.
• D. It fluctuates.

Answer: (C)

In a thermocouple, the electrical potential generated is a result of the Seebeck effect, which states that a voltage is produced when there is a temperature difference between two different conductive materials. As the temperature of the junction increases, the intensity of the thermoelectric effect also increases, leading to a larger voltage or electrical potential being produced. This means that the electrical potential of the thermocouple increases as the temperature of the junction rises. This relationship is commonly utilized in temperature measurement and control systems, making it a key principle behind the operation of thermocouples in various applications.