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Why is wind energy considered renewable?
Wind is a naturally replenishing resource, unlike fossil fuels, ensuring a continuous supply.
Explain energy conversion in wind turbines.
Kinetic energy of wind is converted to mechanical energy by rotating turbine blades, then mechanical energy is converted to electrical energy by a generator.
What are the environmental benefits of wind energy?
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions, less air pollution, and decreased reliance on fossil fuels.
What are the environmental drawbacks of wind energy?
Potential harm to birds and bats, noise pollution, and visual impact on the landscape.
Why are wind turbines mounted on tall towers?
To access stronger, more consistent winds at higher altitudes, increasing energy production.
How does intermittency affect wind energy integration?
Requires energy storage solutions and grid management strategies to ensure a reliable electricity supply.
Why is energy storage important for wind energy?
Wind is variable, so storage ensures a consistent electricity supply when wind is not blowing.
How does wind energy contribute to job creation?
The wind energy industry creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and related sectors.
What factors determine the suitability of a location for wind energy?
Strong, consistent winds, proximity to transmission lines, and minimal environmental impact.
How does wind energy compare economically to fossil fuels?
Wind energy is becoming increasingly cost-competitive, offering a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
Define wind energy.
Energy harnessed from the kinetic energy of moving air to generate electricity.
What is a HAWT?
Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine: the most common type of wind turbine.
What is a VAWT?
Vertical Axis Wind Turbine: a less common type of wind turbine.
Define kinetic energy.
The energy of motion; wind possesses kinetic energy due to its movement.
Define renewable energy.
Energy from sources that are naturally replenished, like wind and solar.
Define intermittency in wind energy.
The characteristic of wind energy being variable and not always constant.
What is a wind turbine generator?
Converts mechanical energy of rotating shaft into electrical energy.
What is pumped storage?
A method of electricity storage.
Define clean energy.
Energy that does not produce harmful emissions or pollutants.
What is noise pollution?
Excessive or disturbing noise that disrupts normal life.
Explain energy conversion in wind turbines.
Kinetic energy of wind -> mechanical energy (turbine rotation) -> electrical energy (generator).
Why are wind turbines mounted on tall towers?
To access stronger, more consistent winds at higher altitudes.
Why is wind energy considered a renewable resource?
Wind is naturally replenished and virtually inexhaustible.
What is the role of a generator in a wind turbine?
Converts mechanical energy from the rotating turbine blades into electrical energy.
What is the environmental significance of wind energy?
Reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
How does wind energy contribute to job creation?
Creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and related industries.
Explain the concept of intermittency in wind energy.
Wind is not always constant, leading to variable electricity output and grid management challenges.
What are the main types of wind turbines?
Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT) and Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT).
How is electricity from wind turbines stored?
Using electrical batteries, compressed air storage, hydrogen fuel cells, or pumped storage.
Why is wind energy becoming more cost-competitive?
Technological advancements and economies of scale are driving down the cost of wind energy.