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Physics
Physics provides a bridge for linking all four of the
alternative energy forms discussed at this site. The basic
system design involves either some heat process to create
steam to move the turbine with, or some force that directly
moves the turbine. The generator spins because it is
connected to the turbine. Several scientific concepts have
already been discussed at this site, and will be used to
illuminate the similarities between nuclear power, solar
power, hydro power, and wind power. All four alternative
energy forms (that is, including passive solar power) have
moving parts and involve different forms of energy.
A couple different forms of energy are intermediates
between electricity and the natural forces at work. First,
before the alternative process begins there is a great
amount of potential energy. In hydro power the water has
potential after it passes through the first gate and before
it falls. The blades of a wind power tower also have
potential to drop toward the ground. Nuclear and solar power
have potential for steam to accelerate upward and evaporate
as steam from liquid water.
Next in the energy conversion process the potential
energy is converted to kinetic energy. The combined and
continual potential and kinetic energy form mechanical
energy and do work on turbines. A generator connects the
turbine and the electrical grid. The generator converts the
mechanical energy to electrical energy (electricity). All
four alternative energy forms rely on the conversion of
energy to attain electricity from nature.
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