- #1
Physics345
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Homework Statement
In point form, outline the process through which electricity is generated from a wind turbine, highlighting the energy transformations that occur. Then state an advantage for this type of electricity production that have not already been discussed in the lesson.
Homework Equations
None
The Attempt at a Solution
• The process starts with wind blowing which is the electric potential energy. The point of wind turbines is to capture the winds energy and convert it into energy in the form of electricity.
• While the wind blowing at a certain velocity the winds potential energy in the form of wind velocity which can be converted into kinetic energy.
• The kinetic energy from the winds velocity is converted into the turbine which begins to turn the blades in a horizontal circular motion, but it isn’t enough for just the wind turbines blades rotation to create mechanical energy, there is a shaft that connects to gears that rotate as well which creates even more rotation, which creates enough rotations per minute to convert that energy into mechanical energy (electricity). It is important to note the angle outer part of the blade adjusts according to the wind direction to allow the blades to spin relative to the wind in the most efficient matter.
• The kinetic energy is converted through a generator that produces the mechanical energy (electricity).
• The electricity current then travels through wires, which is then converted to power our cities light’s and pretty much anything requiring electricity as a form of power.
• A lot of energy is wasted in the form of thermal energy from the friction encountered during the process. (from the rotation of the gears and such)
Tell me what you guys think :)