Generating electricity

What is the main problem with transmitting electricity over long distances?

Heat energy is wasted in the cables.

What is the purpose of a step-up transformer in electricity transmission?

It increases the voltage to reduce current, minimizing heat loss in wires.

What are the two major problems associated with transmitting electricity?

1) Heat energy wasted in cables. 2) High current can cause overheating.

What is the typical voltage produced by power stations?

Power stations typically produce electricity at around 20,000 volts.

What happens to the voltage when electricity is transmitted over long distances?

The voltage is decreased to 11,000 volts for large industries.

How does a step-down transformer function in electricity supply?

It reduces the voltage to 240 volts for consumer safety.

What are some renewable energy sources mentioned for microgeneration?

Solar panels and small wind turbines.

What are the environmental concerns associated with nuclear power generation?

Radioactive waste production and high costs of corrosion and decommissioning.

What are the drawbacks of coal, oil, and gas power generation?

They generate CO2, causing global warming, and SO2, causing acid rain.

What is a significant advantage of hydroelectric power?

It generates large amounts of electricity with no fuel cost.

What are the limitations of wind energy as a power source?

It is unreliable and generates a small amount of energy.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of solar energy?

Benefits: Cheap to install, reliable, no air pollution. Drawbacks: Requires a lot of land and doesn't work at night.

What is geothermal energy and its limitations?

It has no air pollution and is reliable but requires large amounts of land.

What is biomass energy similar to, and what are its advantages?

It is similar to geothermal energy and can generate large amounts of electricity.

What are the characteristics of tidal energy?

Tidal energy is predictable and causes no air pollution.

What is the challenge faced by the national grid regarding electricity supply?

It must balance supply and demand, producing the right amount of electricity every second.

What can cause surges in electricity demand?

Morning wake-ups, evening meal times, and special events.

What happens during a surge in electricity demand?

It can cause blackouts unless the National Grid responds quickly.

How does a fast-response hydroelectric power station operate during high demand?

It opens valves to allow water to flow through turbines, generating electricity quickly.

What is the order of power stations based on start-up times from shortest to longest?

Hydroelectric, Gas, Coal, Nuclear.

What is the significance of the National Grid's ability to predict surges in demand?

It helps prevent blackouts by ensuring adequate electricity supply.

What is the role of the National Grid in electricity management?

It manages the balance between electricity supply and demand.

Why can't electricity be stored on a large scale?

It is not practical to store electrical energy on a large scale.