The diagram models a device that was the foundation for the modern electrical turbine.

Which of the following is causing the wheel to turn?
A.

Force from the mechanical energy generated by the solar radiation causes the wheel to turn.
B.

Force from the mechanical energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.
C.

Force from the thermal energy generated by the solar radiation causes the wheel to turn.
D.

Force from the thermal energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.

B. Force from the mechanical energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.

B. Force from the mechanical energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.

To determine which of the options is causing the wheel to turn, we need to analyze the diagram and the information provided.

The diagram models a device that was the foundation for the modern electrical turbine. Turbines are typically powered by a source of mechanical or thermal energy.

Option A states that the force from the mechanical energy generated by solar radiation causes the wheel to turn. However, there is no mention of solar radiation in the diagram or the provided information. Therefore, option A can be ruled out.

Option B states that the force from the mechanical energy generated by moving water causes the wheel to turn. This option seems plausible because the diagram suggests that the device is connected to a water source. The flow of water can be harnessed to produce mechanical energy that drives the wheel. Option B is a possible answer.

Option C states that the force from the thermal energy generated by solar radiation causes the wheel to turn. However, again, there is no mention of solar radiation in the diagram or information provided. Therefore, option C can be ruled out.

Option D states that the force from the thermal energy generated by moving water causes the wheel to turn. The information given does not indicate any specific presence of thermal energy. Moreover, the diagram does not provide any indication of heat being a factor in the device's operation. Therefore, option D can also be ruled out.

From the analysis, the most plausible answer is option B, which states that the force from the mechanical energy generated by moving water causes the wheel to turn.