A city gets its electricity from a dam where water is stored in a reservoir. How does the water provide the city with its power?
The water in the reservoir provides the city with power through a process called hydroelectric power generation. Here's how it typically works:
1. Water is collected in a reservoir behind the dam, usually in a high-altitude area.
2. When there is a demand for electricity, the water is released from the reservoir and flows down through large pipes or tunnels, known as penstocks.
3. The falling water builds up kinetic energy as it descends from a higher elevation to a lower one.
4. At the bottom of the dam, the water passes through turbines, which are large, propeller-like structures with blades. The kinetic energy of the water causes the turbines to spin rapidly.
5. The turbines are connected to electric generators, which are responsible for converting the mechanical energy from the spinning turbines into electrical energy.
6. The electrical energy is then transferred to the city through an electrical grid, where it can be transmitted to homes, businesses, and other facilities, providing power for various uses.
7. After passing through the turbines, the water is released into a river or a lower-level water body, completing the cycle.
This process of harnessing the energy potential of flowing water is a sustainable and renewable method of generating electricity, as it relies on the natural circulation of water in the environment. Additionally, the water in the reservoir can be stored and released as needed, making it a reliable source of power for the city.