Water is used as a significant power source in many parts of the
world. In fact, Norway uses it to produce 99 percent of its
electricity. So, how does it work?
Water constantly moves through a vast global cycle. First, it
evaporates from water sources such as lakes and oceans, forming
clouds. The water is returned to the Earth in the form of
precipitation such as rain or snow. This eventually flows
through rivers until it reaches larger bodies of water such as
monstrous lakes like Lake Baikal in Russia or oceans.
The sun powers this natural cycle through the evaporation
process. In doing so, it also gives us a very clean energy
resource that can be used to generate massive amounts of
electricity. .
When flowing water is captured and turned into electricity, it
is called hydroelectric power. While there are different types
of hydroelectric power plants, all rely on the kinetic energy
found in flowing water as a basis for generating electricity. In
projects such as the Three Gorges Dam in China, the amount of
electricity produced is simply stunning.
The exact process by generating electricity differs slightly in
each situation, but is basically uniform in the fundamental
workings. A site is located on a river where there is a
significant volume of water and flow rate. A dam is then built
on the river, which effectively seals off the water flow. When
the dam is built, spillways are created within the structure,
which allow the water to pass through the dam in a controlled
manner.
Within the lower section of these spillways, large turbines are
placed with their "paddle" fans in the path of the water. As the
water rushes pass, the fans are turned and electricity is
produced. The electricity is then either stored or sent out on
lines for use in cities. For example, electricity produced from
Hoover Damn on the Colorado River supplies electricity to Las
Vegas and surrounding towns.
Generating electricity with water is a fairly common
methodology. Since it doesn't produce pollutants or waste, it is
also a good one for our environment.
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