Thermionic Valve
Definition: A thermionic valve, also known as a vacuum tube, is an electronic device that controls the flow of electric current. It consists of a system of electrodes (which are components that conduct electricity) placed inside a sealed glass or metal container where air has been removed (this is called an evacuated envelope).
Usage Instructions: You can use "thermionic valve" when discussing older electronic devices, such as radios, amplifiers, and televisions. It's important to note that this term is more common in British English, while "vacuum tube" is often used in American English.
Example Sentence: The radio from the 1950s still works because it has a thermionic valve that amplifies the sound.
Advanced Usage: In modern discussions, when talking about electronics, you may encounter thermionic valves in the context of audio equipment or certain types of scientific instruments. They are valued for their sound quality in music production, although they have largely been replaced by more modern technology.
Word Variants: - Thermionic (adjective): Relating to or using thermionic emission, which is the release of electrons from a heated surface. - Valve (noun): A general term that can refer to any device that controls the flow of fluids or gases, but in this context, it specifically refers to the thermionic valve.
Different Meaning: The word "valve" can have various meanings in different contexts, such as in biology (a part of the heart), mechanics (a device to control the flow of fluids), or even cooking (like a pressure cooker valve).
Synonyms: - Vacuum tube (more commonly used in American English) - Electron tube - Thermionic tube
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There aren't any specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly involve "thermionic valve." However, you might hear phrases like "turn up the volume" when discussing devices that use thermionic valves, especially in music contexts.
Summary: A thermionic valve is an important electronic device used in older technology to control electric currents.