Quiz 13: Forms of Energy and Hydroelectric Systems

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on Quiz 13 covering different forms of energy and the functional differences between dams and pumped storage systems.

Mechanical Energy

The energy associated with the motion and position of an object, subdivided into kinetic and potential energy. Ex: moving car, water behind a dam

Kinetic Energy

A type of mechanical energy characterized by motion, such as a moving car or flowing water.

Potential Energy

Stored energy due to the position of an object, such as water behind a dam or a stretched rubber band.

Thermal (Heat) Energy

The internal energy of an object resulting from the motion (vibrations or collisions) of a substance or object. Ex: boiling water, heat from a stove

Electrical Energy

Energy caused by the movement of electrons, as seen in lightning, batteries, or electricity flowing through wires.

Radiant (Light) Energy

Energy carried by electromagnetic waves, which Includes sunlight, X-rays, microwaves, and radio waves.

Chemical Energy

Energy stored within the bonds of chemical compounds, found in substances like food, gasoline, and batteries.

Nuclear Energy

Energy stored in the nucleus of atoms that is released during the processes of nuclear fission or fusion. Ex: nuclear power plants

Sound Energy

Energy produced by vibrating objects and carried through the environment by sound waves. Ex: music from a speaker

Dams

Structures primarily used for water storage for irrigation and flood control, where hydropower generation is a secondary benefit.

Pumped storage hydroelectric

A form of energy storage that functions like a "water battery" by moving water between upper and lower reservoirs to store and later release energy.

Ohm’s Law

Ohm's law describes the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical circuit. It helps explain how electrical circuits behave in hydropower systems, such as how voltage and current are affected by the resistance in the wiring and components of a hydroelectric generator.

Faraday’s Law

States that a changing magnetic field within a coil of wire induces an electric current. In hydropower, moving water spins a turbine connected to a generator. The generator uses magnets and coils to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy

Ampere’s law

States that an electric current flowing through a conductor creates a magnetic field; used to calculate magnetic field strength and the exact number of turns and current needed to produce a strong stable magnetic field