Thesis: Hydroelectricity Generation

Sample Thesis Paper

Since the generation of hydroelectricity is the most commonly used form of renewable energy in the world it is important to know how hydroelectricity is actually formed. Before we delve into this however it is first equally important to know the hydrologic cycle which provides the earth with water. In the beginning of this cycle, water from the atmosphere reaches the earth through precipitation. Some this water eventually evaporates but most of it enters the soil and remains there.  Rain water and water from melting snow caps eventually reach reservoirs such as lakes, ponds and oceans which complete the cycles since water constantly evaporates from there as well.

The generation of hydroelectric power used these water reservoirs and the use of mechanical devices to generate electricity. The main installation where the harnessing of this form of energy occurs is at hydro electric power plants. The main types of hydroelectric power plants function by use of a dam.

According to the name Dammed Hydroelectric power plants derive electricity from the potential energy of dammed water by the use of a turbine and a generator. The height at which this water is released from the dam provides the energy to turn the hydraulic turbine. This in turn generates electricity. In order to keep a steady stream of electricity some of the water from the head of the dam is stored in a reservoir which can be used to elevate the water level whenever necessary (United States Department of the Interior; Bureau of Reclamation; Power Resources Office, 2005).

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