To determine which option correctly identifies the force causing the wheel to turn in a device modeled after the foundation of a modern electrical turbine, we need to consider the energy sources and their conversions involved in such devices.
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Option A talks about mechanical energy generated by solar radiation. Generally, solar radiation can be converted into thermal energy (as in solar thermal devices) or can be harnessed electrically, but it does not directly generate mechanical energy in conventional turbines.
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Option B mentions mechanical energy generated by moving water. In the context of turbines (like hydropower turbines), moving water indeed provides kinetic energy that turns the turbine’s wheel. This is a primary principle behind hydropower.
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Option C refers to thermal energy from solar radiation. While this can generate steam to drive a turbine, it’s typically indirect in converting thermal energy into mechanical rotational energy.
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Option D refers to thermal energy from moving water. However, water in motion, while having kinetic energy, doesn’t generate thermal energy in the context of turning a turbine.
Given this analysis, the correct answer is:
B. Force from the mechanical energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.
1 answer