Generating electricity

How does a fuel-powered power station work?

1. Fuel is burned

2. Chemical energy →heat energy

3. Heats water to produce steam

4. Turns turbine which is connected to a generator

5. Generator turns and produces electricity

Energy transfers in a fuel-powered power station

Chemical →heat →kinetic →electrical

Energy transfers in a nuclear power station

Nuclear →heat →kinetic →electrical

What is the rule for sankey diagrams?

Total output must equal total input

What is the National Grid?

A network of cables, pylons and transformers

How does the national grid ensure a reliable supply of electricity?

Supplies electricity from other power stations if one breaks down, monitors power use, responds to changing demand

What is the base load?

Minimum amount of electricity needed in 24 hours

Why is hydroelectric power used to meet demand?

Has the quickest start-up time

What does a step-up transformer do?

Increase the voltage and decrease the current

What does a step-down transformer do?

Decrease the voltage and increase the current