Jännitesensitive

Jännitesensitive is a Finnish term that translates to "voltage-sensitive" in English. It describes materials or components whose electrical properties change significantly in response to an applied voltage. This phenomenon is distinct from simple resistance, where current flow is directly proportional to voltage according to Ohm's Law. Instead, jännitesensitive materials exhibit a non-linear relationship between voltage and current.

A common example of a jännitesensitive component is a varistor, also known as a voltage-dependent resistor. Varistors are designed to protect electronic circuits from voltage surges. Under normal operating voltages, a varistor has a very high resistance, allowing very little current to flow through it. However, when the voltage exceeds a certain threshold, the varistor's resistance rapidly decreases, effectively diverting the excess current away from sensitive components and absorbing the surge energy. Once the voltage returns to normal levels, the varistor's resistance returns to its high state.

Other examples of jännitesensitive phenomena include certain types of semiconductors, such as diodes, which exhibit a non-linear current-voltage characteristic. The concept is also relevant in the study of ferroelectric materials, where the dielectric constant can be influenced by an external electric field. Understanding jännitesensitive behavior is crucial in the design and protection of electronic circuits, ensuring reliable operation and preventing damage from overvoltage conditions. The specific mechanism by which a material becomes voltage-sensitive varies depending on its composition and structure.