2.12 Wind & Solar

Question 1

How do wind turbines work?

Answer 1

Each wind turbine has a generator inside it. The rotating blades turn the generator and convert kinetic energy into electrical energy, which can then be transported to the national grid.

Question 2

How does solar power work?

Answer 2

Solar power is generated by solar cells which are often in the form of solar panels. These generate an electrical current directly from sunlight.

Question 3

What are two places that solar cells work well?

Answer 3

• In low energy devices like watches and calculators so that we don’t have to replace batteries
• In remote regions, like the Australian outback, which aren’t connected to the main power grid

Question 4

What are the pros of solar energy and wind power? (2)

Answer 4

• Low running costs
• There’s no pollution when they’re used

Question 5

What are the cons of solar energy and wind power? (4)

Answer 5

• They have relatively high upfront costs
• Making them does produce pollutants
• Their power production is dependent on the weather, and therefore inconsistent
• They take up a lot of land space

Question 6

What is the technical name for a solar cell?

Answer 6

A photovoltaic cell