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, let's analyze the diagram and consider the fundamental principles involved.
The diagram models a device that was the foundation for the modern electrical turbine. Turbines are typically driven by the force of a fluid (like water or steam) or wind, which causes the turbine blades to rotate. These rotating blades are connected to a shaft, which in turn drives a generator to produce electricity.
Looking at the given options:
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.
Option A can be eliminated because solar radiation generally does not generate mechanical energy directly. Solar radiation can be converted into other forms of energy, such as thermal or electrical, but not directly into mechanical energy that could cause the wheel to turn.
Option B is a plausible answer because turbines designed to generate electricity from water flow (hydropower) use the mechanical energy carried by moving water to turn the turbine blades. This mechanical energy from the moving water pushes the blades, causing the wheel to turn.
Option C is incorrect because thermal energy generated by solar radiation does not directly cause the wheel to turn. Solar thermal energy can be used to create steam or heat, which, in turn, can be used to drive a turbine indirectly, but it is not directly responsible for turning the wheel in this case.
Option D is also incorrect because thermal energy generated by moving water is not a significant factor in turning the wheel. Although moving water carries kinetic energy, it does not primarily generate thermal energy. Therefore, this option can be ruled out.
The correct answer is option B: Force from the mechanical energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.