Hydroelectric Power Plant Efficiency Calculation

In summary, the conversation is about a problem involving the calculation of electrical power generated by an electric plant using falling water. The equation .80(1/2)mv2 = Ee is used, where v is the velocity of the falling water, m is the mass of the water, and Ee is the electrical power. The correct answer is 3.86 x 10e5 kg/s, but it is suggested to use dm/dt instead of m in the equation. It is also noted that if E stands for energy, the equation should be .80(1/2)(dm/dt)v2 = dE/dt, but if Ee stands for power, then the equation is correct as .80(
  • #1
BrainMan
279
2

Homework Statement



upload_2016-10-18_20-24-9.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



What I attempted to do is

.80(1/2)mv2 = Ee

Where v is the velocity of the falling water, m is the mass of the falling water, and Ee is the electrical power generated by the electric plant.

So then I solved for m since you are given the Ee and the velocity and I got 3.86 x 10e5 kg/s.
 

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  • #2
Your number is correct. To be strictly correct you should use dm/dt in your equation instead of m.
 
  • #3
kuruman said:
Your number is correct. To be strictly correct you should use dm/dt in your equation instead of m.
But then it would be dE/dt on the other side, assuming E stands for energy, not power.
The OP equation can be justified by prefixing it with "in the time in which a mass m of water passes through".
 
  • #4
haruspex said:
But then it would be dE/dt on the other side, assuming E stands for energy, not power.
If E stands for energy, .80(1/2)(dm/dt)v2 = dE/dt is correct.
If Ee stands for power (as indicated by OP in attempt at solution), .80(1/2)(dm/dt)v2 = Ee is correct.
 

1. What is a hydroelectric power plant?

A hydroelectric power plant is a facility that uses the energy of moving water to generate electricity. It typically consists of a dam or barrier that captures the potential energy of water and converts it into mechanical energy, which is then used to turn a turbine and generate electricity.

2. How does a hydroelectric power plant work?

A hydroelectric power plant works by using the energy of falling water to turn a turbine, which is connected to a generator. The water flows through pipes or tunnels and spins the blades of the turbine, converting the kinetic energy of the water into mechanical energy. The generator then converts this mechanical energy into electricity, which can be used to power homes and businesses.

3. What are the benefits of hydroelectric power plants?

Hydroelectric power plants have several benefits, including being a renewable and sustainable source of energy, producing no air pollution, and being highly reliable and efficient. They also have a relatively low cost of operation and maintenance, and the water used to generate electricity can be stored for later use, making it a flexible source of energy.

4. What are the potential environmental impacts of hydroelectric power plants?

Although hydroelectric power plants have many benefits, they can also have negative environmental impacts. Building a dam can disrupt the natural flow of a river and impact aquatic ecosystems. Dams can also alter the temperature and oxygen levels of the water, affecting the survival of fish and other organisms. Additionally, the construction of hydroelectric power plants can require the displacement of communities and the destruction of habitats.

5. How does the cost of hydroelectric power compare to other sources of energy?

The cost of hydroelectric power can vary depending on the location and size of the power plant. However, in general, hydroelectric power tends to have lower operational costs and a longer lifespan compared to other sources of energy such as fossil fuels. Additionally, since hydroelectric power plants use renewable resources, they are not subject to the fluctuations in price that can occur with non-renewable resources. Overall, hydroelectric power is considered a cost-effective and sustainable source of energy.

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