what kind of energy occurs in a hydroelectric power plant?

Tags: Energy, Hydroelectric, kind, occurs, plant, Power

3 Responses to “what kind of energy occurs in a hydroelectric power plant?”

1. Steven says:

   February 7, 2010 at 1:27 pm

   The water in the reservoir behind the dam has gravitational potential energy. When it starts falling, this potential energy has been converted into mechanical energy (a form of kinetic energy). This mechanical energy then is transferred to the turbines which then spin. This causes the generator to turn and at that point the mechanical energy gets converted to electrical energy (also a form of kinetic energy) in the wires of the generator. From there it’s electrical energy to your house.
2. nekkidlarry says:

   February 7, 2010 at 2:04 pm

   electricity
3. John W says:

   February 7, 2010 at 2:09 pm

   Yes, the water at the higher elevation has potential energy due to it’s height and the effects of gravity which converts to kinetic energy when allowed to flow down, the kinetic energy being used to drive a turbine to generate electricity. But the water gets to that height by evaporation due to sunshine and gets rained out at the higher elevation so ultimately, it’s solar energy.