What is the difference between linear and non-linear dielectrics?

In summary, a linear dielectric is a material that can store and transmit electric charge but does not conduct it, characterized by its dielectric constant. It follows Ohm's law and examples include glass, rubber, and plastics. Linear dielectrics are used in everyday applications such as capacitors and electronic devices. They cannot conduct electricity but can store and transmit charge through polarization effects.
  • #1
lavster
217
0
can someone please tell me what a linear dielectric is, in words?

thanks
 
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  • #2
One in which D is proportional to E.
 
  • #3
In a linear dielectric the electric dipolar moment per unit volume (modulus of vector P) has a linear dependence on the electric field E
 
  • #4
thanks for that! could you give me an example of a dielectric which is linear, and one which is not please?
 
  • #5
Glass is mostly linear whilst barium titanate is highly non-linear
 

Related to What is the difference between linear and non-linear dielectrics?

What is a linear dielectric?

A linear dielectric is a material that can store and transmit electric charge, but does not conduct it. It is characterized by its dielectric constant, which measures how well it can store charge compared to a vacuum.

How is a linear dielectric different from a non-linear dielectric?

A linear dielectric follows Ohm's law, where the electric field is directly proportional to the applied voltage. Non-linear dielectrics, on the other hand, do not follow this relationship and may exhibit more complex behaviors.

What are some examples of linear dielectric materials?

Some common examples of linear dielectrics include glass, rubber, and most plastics. Air and water can also act as linear dielectrics under certain conditions.

How are linear dielectrics used in everyday life?

Linear dielectrics are used in a variety of everyday applications such as in capacitors, insulating materials for electrical wiring, and in electronic devices to prevent interference between components.

Can linear dielectrics conduct electricity at all?

No, linear dielectrics cannot conduct electricity as they do not have free electrons for charge to flow through. However, they can store and transmit electric charge through their polarization effects.

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