An Entropy Approach to Modify the Traditional Definitions of the Thermoelectric and Photovoltaic Effects

Abstract

Following an entropy approach, it was possible to prove a common nature of the flow of thermal and electric energies as flow electromagnetic waves of different potentials. According to such approach, it was possible modify the traditional definitions of the photovoltaic and thermoelectric effects. It was possible to prove the photovoltaic effect and thermoelectric effect as converting the thermal potential of the incident radiation or electromagnetic waves of thermal potential into electromagnetic waves of electric potential or flow of electric charges by a Seebeck effect.