Measuring the Transformation of Energy
Experiment #2 from Wind Energy Explorations
- Education Level
- Middle School
Introduction
When moving air hits the blades of a wind turbine, some of the wind’s kinetic energy is transferred to the turbine blades, which spin. Through this process, some kinetic energy of the wind is transformed into kinetic energy of the rotating turbine. The spinning generator causes electrons to start moving through the wires connected to the generator, converting kinetic energy to electrical energy.
In this experiment you will use an Energy Sensor to measure the rate at which kinetic energy is transformed into electrical energy.
Objectives
- Set up the data-collection equipment.
- Measure current, potential difference (voltage), power output, and energy production of a wind turbine.
- Use data-collection software to calculate mean (average) values.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment features the following sensors and equipment. Additional equipment may be required.
Ready to Experiment?
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Purchase the Lab Book
This experiment is #2 of Wind Energy Explorations. The experiment in the book includes student instructions as well as instructor information for set up, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data.
