Thermoelectric devices are tools that convert temperature differences directly into electrical energy. They work based on the Seebeck effect, where a voltage is generated when there is a temperature gradient across two different materials. These devices can be used for power generation or cooling applications. Common examples of thermoelectric devices include thermoelectric generators and Peltier coolers. Thermoelectric generators can harness waste heat from engines or industrial processes, while Peltier coolers are used in refrigeration and electronic cooling. Their efficiency and compact size make them valuable in various applications, from automotive to consumer electronics.