Hydroelectricity and Tidal Barrages

• How do hydroelectric dams and tidal barrages generate electricity?


  By creating a difference in water levels that converts gravitational potential energy into electricity
• What is the main difference between hydroelectric dams and tidal barrages?


  The source of the difference in water levels
• What is a reservoir in the context of hydroelectric dams?


  A large accumulation of water trapped behind the dam
• What natural phenomenon do tidal barrages utilize to generate power?


  The cyclic rise and fall of sea levels due to the moon's gravity
• How often do high tides occur, according to the video?


  Twice each day
• What is the role of gravitational potential energy in hydroelectric power generation?


  It is converted into electricity due to the difference in water heights
• What happens to the water after it passes through the turbines in a dam?


  It flows back into the river on the other side of the dam
• What are the pros of hydroelectric dams and tidal barrages?


  • Generate large amounts of energy with no pollution
  • Reliable sources of electricity
  • Immediate response to increased demand
  • Low running costs
  • Can operate on large and small scales
• What are the cons of hydroelectric dams and tidal barrages?


  • Significant impact on surrounding environment
  • Flooding of large areas, submerging habitats and villages
  • Disruption of boat and fish migrations
  • High initial setup costs
• What is a common environmental impact of hydroelectric dams?


  Flooding of large areas
• How do hydroelectric dams affect fish migrations?


  They can stop fish from traveling up or down the river
• Why might the initial setup of hydroelectric dams and tidal barrages be considered a disadvantage?


  Because it is often expensive