Posted:
15 years ago
How electric heater works: -
I thought, by now, somebody would have answered this question. Anyway, I got a chance.π
Electric heater converts electrical energy into heat. There are various kinds of heaters. However, there is common principle that when current flows through a resistance, then it generates heat.
Want some Mathematics?π OK, here it is: -
Why current i flows through resistance R for time t, then heat generated
= i^2 Rt
This is called Joule heating.
So, in all heaters an element is used through which current is flown.
The heat is transferred to surroundings through various means. Different heaters adopt different means. They are:-
1. Infrared radiation: - heat radiation travels from the element to an object, which partially absorbs the heat.
2. Conduction and convection - The element heats air next to it through conduction. The hot air is less dense, so it rises and cool air takes its place and that cycle is repeated. This process is called convection.
If you ask about some specific kind of heater, then I will explain that in more detail.