Multiple Choice Question
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 answer is correct, we need to understand how the device works and what drives the wheel to turn.
The given diagram represents a device that is the foundation for the modern electrical turbine. Turbines are devices that convert kinetic energy (in this case, generated by some external source) into mechanical energy. They consist of a series of blades or vanes attached to a central shaft. When a fluid (such as air or water) flows through the blades, it causes them to rotate, thereby turning the shaft.
Let's examine the options provided:
A. Force from the mechanical energy generated by solar radiation causes the wheel to turn.
Solar radiation refers to energy from the sun, which is typically converted into other forms of energy such as heat or electricity. However, the given diagram does not indicate any connection to solar radiation. Therefore, option A is not applicable.
B. Force from the mechanical energy generated by moving water causes the wheel to turn.
This option suggests that the wheel is driven by the mechanical energy produced by the movement of water. Turbines are commonly used in hydroelectric power plants, where the force of moving water (generated by gravity or other means) is used to turn the turbine and generate electricity. This option aligns with our understanding of how turbines work. Thus, option B appears to be the correct answer.
C. Force from the thermal energy generated by solar radiation causes the wheel to turn.
Thermal energy refers to heat energy. While heat energy can be used to generate steam or other forms of kinetic energy to power turbines, the diagram does not provide any indication of solar radiation or a connection to thermal energy. Therefore, option C is not applicable.
D. Force from the thermal energy generated by moving water causes the wheel to turn.
This option suggests that the wheel is driven by the thermal energy (heat) generated by the movement of water. However, the diagram does not indicate any direct connection to thermal energy. Therefore, option D is not applicable.
Based on our analysis, the correct answer is B. The wheel is turned by the force from the mechanical energy generated by moving water.