10 (a) Figure 13 shows wind turbines, used to generate electricity for the National Grid - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 10 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 10
10 (a) Figure 13 shows wind turbines, used to generate electricity for the National Grid.
The wind turns the turbine blades.
The wind is a renewable source of energ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:10 (a) Figure 13 shows wind turbines, used to generate electricity for the National Grid - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 10 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
State two other renewable sources of energy.
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Solar energy
Biomass
Step 2
Calculate the efficiency of this turbine.
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The efficiency can be calculated using the formula:
extefficiency=(input energyoutput energy)×100
Substituting the values:
efficiency=(6.2kJ2.2kJ)×100=35.48%≈35%
Step 3
Suggest a reason why it is impossible for the turbine to use all the kinetic energy of the wind.
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Air must move on the other side of the blades for the system to work, meaning not all kinetic energy can be converted into mechanical energy.
Step 4
Compare nuclear fission and nuclear fusion as sources for generating electricity using a nuclear reactor.
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Differences between Nuclear Fission and Fusion
Nuclear Fission: Involves splitting a heavy nucleus by a neutron, resulting in two daughter nuclei, more neutrons, and energy release, which can initiate a chain reaction.
Advantages: Currently in use, providing significant energy output.
Disadvantages: Produces radioactive waste that is hard to dispose of, with a risk of accidents.
Nuclear Fusion: Involves joining light nuclei at high energy, temperature, and density,
resulting in helium and energy production.
Advantages: No harmful waste products.
Disadvantages: Not yet achieved on a practical scale, with difficulties in achieving the required energy and conditions.