Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 18 - Think and Explain - Page 352-353: 55

Answer

The sun is the source of the energy that runs a hydroelectric plant. Solar energy evaporates water, giving it gravitational potential energy.

Work Step by Step

The water comes down as rain, replenishing bodies of water at high elevations. When the water flows downhill through electrical turbines, we are tapping that energy to generate hydroelectricity.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.