A wind turbine begins to produce electricity when the wind speed is about 13 km/h. The wind turns the blades which then turn a generator to produce electricity. Motion energy is converted into electrical energy. Wind farms contain many wind turbines.
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Advantages It is a sustainable source of energy. Wind energy is a renewable source of energy and will never run out. Wind farms do not produce any carbon emissions or other pollutants.
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Disadvantages Wind turbines only work when it is windy. They usually run at around 30% of their potential capacity. Wind farms can cause problems such as noise pollution and soil erosion. Some people feel that they damage the natural beauty of the area they are located in.
They take up a lot of space.
Research this Find out the number of wind farms
in Ireland and where they are located. Which county has the highest number of wind farms? What type of location is most suitable for wind farms?
Science in Society Research different energy sources and present an informed view of ways in which current and future energy needs on Earth can be met.
Research one renewable and one non-renewable energy source: Renewable
Non-renewable
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Wind farms Solar panels Hydroelectric power plants Biofuel
Geothermal
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Coal Oil Turf
Natural gas Nuclear fission
Consider the following factors for each energy source: How it is formed What it is used for Efficiency – how much useful energy is produced?
4. 5.
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Advantages of using this form of energy Disadvantages of using this form of energy
