Question

A spinning turbine can only generate electricity in the form of a/an _______ current. Of all the alternative energy technologies presented in this section, only solar panels produce a/an _______ current. Methane can be emitted from the _______ near a hydropower dam. _______ are the only energy generation technology that does not require the use of a turbine.
What role does the sun play in allowing power to be produced with wind turbines?

Answer 1

1. Alternating

2. Direct

3. Reservoir

4. Solar cells

5. The sun heats up the atmosphere as Earth spins, creating areas of high and low temperature. This temperature difference causes wind to start moving through convection, which can then drive a wind turbine to produce electricity.