A quartz crystal is a self-generating transducer.

Explanation:
A transducer is a device that converts one form of energy into another. In the case of a quartz crystal, it is a piezoelectric transducer, which means it converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Quartz is a naturally occurring mineral composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It has a unique property called piezoelectricity, which means it can generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress or pressure. This property is due to the arrangement of atoms in the crystal lattice structure of quartz.

When a mechanical force or pressure is applied to a quartz crystal, it causes the crystal to deform or vibrate. This deformation or vibration generates an electric charge across the crystal. The amount of charge generated is directly proportional to the applied force or pressure.

Quartz crystals are commonly used in various electronic devices and applications due to their precise and stable frequency characteristics. They are used in quartz watches, oscillators, filters, and sensors.

Key Points:
- Quartz crystal is a self-generating transducer.
- It converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
- Quartz has a property called piezoelectricity.
- Piezoelectricity allows the crystal to generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress or pressure.
- The amount of charge generated is proportional to the applied force or pressure.
- Quartz crystals are used in electronic devices and applications for their precise and stable frequency characteristics.