Water Energy
Physics: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 1.11.5
Water (Hydroelectric Power)
Water high above the ground is a store of gravitational potential energy. Hydroelectric dams trap water and allowing it to fall rotates a turbine, which turns a generator.
Advantages
- Renewable.
- More reliable than wind and solar.
Disadvantages
- Hydroelectric dams often change the paths of rivers, which can move people out of houses and harm local wildlife.
Test yourself on Water Energy
Which of the following is an advantage of hydroelectric power?