Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The piezoelectric effect is a physical phenomenon exhibited by certain crystalline materials (such as quartz, Rochelle salt, and lead zirconate titanate).
It involves the coupling of mechanical and electrical states in these materials.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
When mechanical stress or physical pressure is applied to a piezoelectric crystal, it causes a deformation in the crystal's lattice structure.
This structural deformation shifts the centers of positive and negative charges within the crystal, generating an electric dipole moment.
This displacement of charges creates an electric potential difference, or voltage, across the opposite faces of the crystal.
This direct conversion of mechanical pressure into an electrical voltage is the basis for pressure sensors, force transducers, and ultrasonic equipment.
Applying pressure does not directly change the material's resistance (which is the piezoresistive effect) or alter chemical properties like pH.
Therefore, voltage is generated when pressure is applied to a piezoelectric device.
Step 3: Final Answer
The correct option is (B).