Crystal Microphone
Definition: A crystal microphone is a type of microphone that works by using a special material called a piezoelectric crystal. When sound waves (like your voice or music) hit this crystal, it vibrates and creates a varying electrical signal. This signal is then turned into sound that we can hear.
Usage Instructions: - To use a crystal microphone, connect it to an audio device, like an amplifier or a sound system. - Speak or make sounds close to the microphone so that the sound waves can hit the crystal. - The microphone will convert your voice or sounds into electrical signals, which can be amplified and played through speakers.
Example Sentence: "When I sang into the crystal microphone, my voice sounded clear and bright."
Advanced Usage:Crystal microphones are often used in older telephones and some musical instruments, but they are less common today since newer types, like dynamic and condenser microphones, have become more popular.
Word Variants: - Microphone: This is the general term for any device that converts sound into an electrical signal. There are many types of microphones, including dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones. - Piezoelectric: This term refers to materials that generate an electrical charge when they are mechanically stressed (like when sound waves hit them).
Different Meanings: - The word "crystal" can also refer to a solid material whose atoms are arranged in an orderly pattern, like quartz. - "Microphone" can sometimes be shortened to "mic" in casual conversation.
Synonyms: - Some synonyms for "microphone" in a broad sense include: - Mic - Transducer (a device that converts one form of energy into another)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "crystal microphone," but you might hear the phrase "to pick up sound," which refers to the microphone's ability to capture audio.
Summary: A crystal microphone is an older type of microphone that uses a piezoelectric crystal to convert sound waves into electrical signals.