hydro-electricity

Hydro-electricity

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Hydro-electricity uses the energy of running water to make electrical energy. Hydro-electric stations are built where there is running water.

Most hydro-electric stations are located in dams where water is stored. But hydro-electric stations can also be built on rivers and near waterfalls.

The flow of the water from the dam can be controlled by opening and closing gates or pipes to the dam. The dam wall also creates a high water level and this increases the pressure in the pipes which takes the water to the turbine

To make hydro-electric power, water from rain or melting snow is collected and stored in a lake or a dam. A large pipe carries the water from the dam or lake to the turbine. The pressure of the water pushes against the blades of the turbine and make it spin. The rotating turbine is connected to a generator which makes the electrical energy or electricity.

The electricity then travels through transformers and transmission lines to homes and factories.

Hydro-electricity is a renewable source of energy.

Hydro-electricity is clean power. It produces no waste, and doesn't produce any greenhouse gases.

The most famous hydro-electric power station in Australia is the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. Go here to read about it: http://www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au/articles/snowyscheme/

Hydro comes from a Greek word meaning water.

Acknowledge this source in your bibliography like this:
Thomas & Sydenham, Hydro-electricity . [Online] www.kidcyber.com.au (2008)

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