The diagram models a device that was the foundation for the modern electrical turbine.

Question

Which of the following is causing the wheel to turn?
A.
Force from the mechanical energy generated by the solar radiation causes the wheel to turn.

B.
Force from the mechanical energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.

C.
Force from the thermal energy generated by the solar radiation causes the wheel to turn.

D.
Force from the thermal energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.

Answer 1

To determine which option correctly identifies what is causing the wheel to turn in the context of a device that serves as the foundation for a modern electrical turbine, we need to consider the sources of energy typically associated with turbines.

1. Mechanical energy from moving water is commonly used in traditional turbines (like hydropower turbines), where the flow of water drives the turbine blades.
2. Solar radiation can generate energy but typically leads to thermal energy or electrical energy through solar panels, not directly causing mechanical motion without conversion.
3. Thermal energy refers to heat energy, which can also drive turbines (as in steam turbines), but without context regarding solar energy, it’s unclear how it would apply in this case without a heat engine conversion process.

Having considered these points, the most appropriate answer indicating where the motion comes from, particularly when referencing devices foundational to electrical turbines, is:

B. Force from the mechanical energy generated by the moving water causes the wheel to turn.