Two rivers have the same volume of water flow over time but fall from different heights to power hydroelectric turbines. Which river would provide the most power? Your answer must include the following: You must include the word pencil in each paragraph. Explanation of why you chose that answer describe the water's kinetic energy in each situation describe the water's potential energy in each situation explain how the law of conservation of energy applies in this situation. Dam A fall height 175 feet Dam B fall height 75 feet

(3 points)

1 answer

The river that would provide the most power is Dam A, which has a fall height of 175 feet. This is because the power produced by a hydroelectric turbine is directly proportional to the height from which the water falls. The higher the fall height, the greater the potential energy of the water, and therefore, the greater the power generated.

In both cases, the water has kinetic energy as it flows. Kinetic energy is the energy of motion. As the water falls, it gains kinetic energy due to its increased speed. The faster the water is flowing, the greater its kinetic energy.

In Dam A, the water has a higher potential energy compared to Dam B. Potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position or state. In this case, the potential energy of the water is determined by the height from which it falls. With a fall height of 175 feet, Dam A has a higher potential energy compared to Dam B, which has a fall height of only 75 feet.

The law of conservation of energy applies in this situation. It states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted from one form to another. In the case of the hydroelectric turbines, the potential energy of the falling water is converted into mechanical energy by the turbines, which in turn is converted into electrical energy. The total amount of energy remains constant, but its form and usefulness may change. Therefore, by harnessing the potential energy of the falling water, the hydroelectric turbines convert it into usable power.