How does a piezoelectric sensor work?

A piezoelectric sensor works by creating an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress or pressure applied to it. This phenomenon is based on the piezoelectric effect, where certain materials (often crystals or ceramics) generate an electric charge when they are deformed. When pressure is applied to the sensor, it undergoes a mechanical change, which in turn causes the material to generate a voltage proportional to the amount of pressure applied.

The sensor's ability to convert mechanical energy into electrical signals makes it highly suitable for applications such as strain gauges, accelerometers, and pressure sensors. This functionality is crucial in various fields, including industrial automation, automotive technologies, and consumer electronics.

The other options do not accurately describe the operational principle of a piezoelectric sensor. Generating signal distortion, amplifying electrical signals without a stimulus, or measuring only temperature changes do not align with the fundamental working mechanism of piezoelectric materials. The essence of a piezoelectric sensor lies in its capacity to convert applied pressure into an electrical output, which is precisely captured by the correct answer.