NATS 1815 - Electricity and Energy Concepts

These flashcards cover key concepts related to electricity, energy generation methods, environmental impacts, and the specifics of various energy resources discussed in the NATS 1815 lecture.

Electric Current

The flow of electric charge, measured in amperes (A) or coulombs per second (C/s).

Collisions with Atoms

Cause momentary changes in the direction of electron movement within conductors.

Ammeter

Instrument used to measure electric current in a circuit.

Voltmeter

Instrument used to measure electric potential (voltage).

Ohm's Law

States that the current (I) through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage (V) across the two points, and inversely proportional to the resistance (R). Formula: V = IR.

Resistance (R)

Opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in ohms (Ω).

Resistivity (ρ)

A material property that quantifies how strongly a given material opposes the flow of electric current.

Direct Current (DC)

An electric current flowing in one direction only.

Alternating Current (AC)

An electric current that periodically reverses direction.

Turbine

A device that converts fluid energy into mechanical energy, used in hydroelectric systems to generate electricity.

High Head System

A hydroelectric power system that utilizes the potential energy of water stored at a significant elevation.

Low Head System

A hydroelectric power system that uses the kinetic energy of flowing water with a smaller elevation difference.

Penstock

Pipe or conduit used to convey water to a turbine in hydroelectric facilities.

Hydroelectric Power

Electricity generated from the energy of flowing or falling water.

Environmental Impact of Hydroelectric Power

Includes deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and changes in water flow affecting ecosystems.

Capacity Factor

The ratio of actual output over a period of time to the maximum possible output if the system operated continuously at full capacity.

Gravitational Potential Energy

Potential energy held by an object because of its position relative to the earth, which can be converted into electrical energy in hydroelectric plants.

Kinetic Energy of Water

Energy possessed by water in motion, which can be harnessed in run-of-the-river hydroelectric systems.

Tidal Energy

Energy derived from the gravitational forces of the moon and sun, causing tidal movements.

Schematic of Barrage System

Illustration showing the components of a tidal power generation system including sluice gates and turbines.

Gated Turbines

Turbines that allow water flow through them at different water levels for energy generation.

Ebb Generation Scheme

A method where water is trapped in a tidal basin and released to generate power as the tide goes out.

Flood Generation Scheme

A method where water is kept out of a basin until higher tide levels allow it to flow in for energy generation.

Non-Barrage Tidal Power Systems

Tidal lagoon systems that harness tidal movements without using a barrage structure.

CO2 Emissions

Carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels contributing to climate change.

Thermal Pollution

Environmental disruption caused by excessive heat discharged into the environment, typically from power plants.

Particulate Pollution

Tiny solid or liquid particles in the air that arise from the combustion of fossil fuels, primarily coal.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases like CO2 and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

Climate Change

Long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, largely driven by greenhouse gas emissions.

Renewable Energy

Energy sourced from natural processes that are replenished constantly, such as solar or hydroelectric power.

Nuclear Electric Power

Electricity generated through nuclear reactions, commonly using uranium or plutonium.

Fossil Fuels

Natural substances formed from decomposed ancient organic matter, including oil, natural gas, and coal.

Oil Refining Process

The separation of hydrocarbons based on their boiling points in a fractionating column to produce various fuels.

Natural Gas Composition

Typically a mixture consisting of about 85% methane and 15% ethane.

Coal Formation

Coal is formed from the compressed remains of plants over millions of years under high pressure and heat.

Renewable Energy Growth

The recent increase in the capacity and use of renewable energy sources, particularly in developing regions.

Potential Energy in Hydroelectric Systems

Energy stored due to height, which can be converted to electricity when the water is released.

Electric Circuit

A complete path through which electric charges can flow, encompassing a power source, conductors, and load.

Current Flow Direction in DC

In a direct current system, current flows in one constant direction from positive to negative terminals.

Frequency in AC Circuits

How often the current changes direction in an alternating current system, typically measured in hertz (Hz).

Harnessing Tidal Energy

Utilization of the gravitational forces of celestial bodies to generate power through the rise and fall of tides.

Tidal Basin Volume

The quantity of water held within a defined tidal area, critical for calculating potential energy generation.

Incremental Expansion of Hydroelectric Power

The gradual increase in the use and capacity of hydroelectric generation across various geographic regions.

Impact of Deforestation on Hydroelectric Projects

Environmental concerns related to loss of tree cover affecting carbon sequestration and wildlife habitats.

Global Warming Evidence

Observational data such as rising global temperatures, changing weather patterns, and shrinking glaciers.