P1.4 Methods we use to generate electricity Flashcards
1
Q
How is electricity produced in some power stations? (3)
A
- An ENERGY source HEATS WATER
- STEAM drives a TURBINE
- Which is coupled to an electrical GENERATOR which generates electricity
2
Q
Name three types of energy source that could be used in a power station and how they produce energy
A
Fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas): burning
Uranium and plutonium: nuclear fission
Biofuels: burning
3
Q
Which 4 natural sources can be used to directly drive turbines?
A
- Wind
- Hydroelectric (falling of water)
- Tides
- Waves
4
Q
Where can electricity can be produced directly from?
A
The Sun’s radiation
5
Q
How do we source geothermal energy?
A
- In some volcanic areas hot water and steam rise to the surface
- Steam is tapped and drives turbines
6
Q
When are solar cells useful?
A
When we only need SMALL AMOUNTS of electricity (e.g. watches and calculators)
or in REMOTE PLACES
7
Q
What are three disadvantages of using solar cells?
A
- Expensive TO BUY (they cost nothing to run)
- Don’t work at night
- Needed A LOT (with a lot of sunshine) to generate enough POWER to be USEFUL
8
Q
How does a solar power tower use mirrors? (2)
A
- 1000s of flat mirrors REFLECT sunlight onto water tank at the top
- Mirrors on the ground surround the base of the tower
9
Q
What are three advantages of solar cells?
A
Renewable
No greenhouse gases
No fuel costs
