Earth Science
Natural Resources
Hydroelectric Power
Study Tip
Hydroelectric power, much like wind power or geothermal power, requires some natural force to move turbines that generate electricity.
Hydroelectric Dam
- In a hydroelectric plant, a dam across a riverbed holds a stream to create a reservoir.
- The water is allowed to flow into a large turbine.
- As the water moves, it has kinetic energy, which makes the turbine spin. The turbine is connected to a generator, which makes electricity
Study Tip
Hydroelectric power, much like wind power or geothermal power, requires some natural force to move turbines that generate electricity.
Study Tip
The same way a person may cast a shadow over another person when they stand under the sun, planets or celestial bodies that have aligned themselves cast shadows over one another as well.
Applications
- Colorado’s Hoover Dam generates about 4 billion kilowatt-hours of hydroelectric power each year.
- This power is used in Nevada, Arizona, and California—enough to serve 1.3 million people.
Tidal Power Stations
- Tides come onto the shore, and the water from tide can be trapped in a dam.
- Energy is produced in a similar fashion to a hydroelectric dam.
Advantages
Disadvantages
- Generates power without pollution
- Renewable energy is created as long as the stream continues to flow
- There are a limited number of suitable dam sites
- Affects the stream’s ecosystem, since the dam disrupts river flow
Concept Check
- How do hydroelectric dams work?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of using hydroelectric power?
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