Difference Between a water wheel and a water turbine?

AI Thread Summary
The primary distinction between a water wheel and a water turbine lies in their applications; water wheels typically power mechanical systems, while water turbines are designed for electricity generation. Water wheels can be categorized as undershot or overshot, but these classifications do not directly apply to turbines. Turbines are generally immersed in water, although they can also operate with water flowing over or under their hub. Both devices can be utilized for generating electricity or driving mechanical systems, including pumps and boats. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the appropriate technology for specific energy or mechanical needs.
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Is the difference between a water wheel and a water turbine the fact that a water wheel is used to power a mechanical system where as a water turbine is connected to a generator to produce electricity? I understand that you can get undershot and overshot water wheels but do these also apply to water turbines?
 
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A turbine is physically a different beastie to a wheel.
Google for the images and look.

Turbines are usually immersed - but don't have to be. If they are not immersed, then you can have the water pass over or under the hub.

Either can be used to make electricity or drive some other mechanical contrivance.
Either can be driven to push water as in a pump or a boat.
 

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