Compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two methods of generating electricity (figure 1 in answer):

Figure 1 (AQA GCSE Science A Physics: Higher Tier):

The wind turbine costs £50 000 to buy and install.

The hydroelectric generator costs £20 000 to buy and install.

The average power output from the wind turbine is 10 kW.

The hydroelectric generator will produce a constant power output of 8 kW.

Answer:

The advantages of both sources of power are that they are both renewable sources of energy. Once constructed, the produced fuels will have a very small running cost, due to not requiring fuel, in turn producing no carbon dioxide.

The wind turbine will produce a higher average power output (10kW) but has a higher installation cost. While the 'average output power' is higher, this source of energy is limited by not being constant. Wind turbines can be noisy, produce visual pollution and be deadly to local birds.

In comparison, while producing a lower power output, the hydroelectric power is constant. Like the wind turbines, hydroelectric power may be noisy and also dangerous to fish. 

CH
Answered by Charlie H. Physics tutor

19822 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the basic principles of ultrasound imaging (2 marks)


A kettle boils 0.6kg of water. After some time the temperature of the water has decreased to 83 degrees. The specific heat capacity of water is 4200J/kg. Calculate the energy transferred to the surroundings.


How do we know about the structure of the atom?


what is a half life of a substance and how can you work it out.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences