The Dielectric Breakdown Threshold refers to the maximum electric field strength that a dielectric material can withstand before it becomes conductive. When the electric field exceeds this threshold, the material undergoes a process called dielectric breakdown, where it starts to conduct electricity, often leading to permanent damage. This phenomenon is critical in applications involving insulators, capacitors, and high-voltage systems, as it can cause failures or catastrophic events.
The breakdown voltage, , is typically expressed in terms of the electric field strength, , and the thickness of the material, , using the relationship:
Factors influencing the dielectric breakdown threshold include the material properties, temperature, and the presence of impurities. Understanding this threshold is essential for designing safe and reliable electrical systems.
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