All Flashcards
What are the steps in generating hydroelectric power using a dam?
Reservoir creation, water release, turbine rotation, electricity generation, distribution.
Describe the process of converting water flow into electricity.
Kinetic energy of water turns a turbine, which powers a generator to produce electricity.
What are the steps involved in building a hydroelectric dam?
Site selection, environmental impact assessment, construction, reservoir filling, power generation.
Why is hydropower considered renewable?
Water is continuously replenished through the water cycle.
Explain energy conversion in hydropower.
Potential energy of stored water converts to kinetic energy, then mechanical energy (turbine), then electrical energy (generator).
How do dams create potential energy?
By increasing the water's height, increasing gravitational potential energy.
Describe the relationship between water height and energy.
Higher water levels behind a dam result in greater potential energy and more electricity generation.
What role does gravity play in hydropower?
Gravity pulls water downwards, converting potential energy into kinetic energy to spin turbines.
What are the two main types of hydroelectric power generation?
Dams and tidal waves.
How can fish ladders mitigate dam impacts?
Fish ladders allow fish to bypass dams, enabling them to migrate upstream for breeding.
How can habitat restoration offset dam impacts?
Restoring riparian habitats and wetlands can compensate for habitat loss due to dam construction.
How can selective water withdrawal improve water quality?
Releasing water from different reservoir depths can help manage water temperature and oxygen levels downstream.