AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Hodder Education Revision Lessons
Methods we use to generate electricity
Methods we use to generate electricity
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AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Overview
• Various energy sources can be used to generate the electricity we need.
• The advantages and disadvantages of each energy source must be considered before deciding which source(s) would be best to use in any particular situation.
• Electricity is distributed by the National Grid.
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AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Generating electricity from fuels 1
In some power stations an energy source is used to heat water. The steam produced is used to drive a turbine, which is coupled to an electrical generator.
Energy sources include:
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• fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas), which are burned to heat water or air
• uranium and plutonium, when energy from nuclear fission is used to heat water
• biofuels, which can be burned to heat water
AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Generating electricity from fuels 2
How does a nuclear power station differ from this one?
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The first stage in generating electricity from coal or oil is to burn it. Energy is transferred and used to heat water and produce steam. The steam drives steam turbines, which turn generators and the generators produce electricity.
AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Generating electricity using wind
Wind can be used to drive turbines directly.
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Why are some people opposed to wind power?
AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Generating electricity using water
Water can be used to drive turbines directly.
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What is meant by the term a ‘pumped-storage’ power station?
AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Electricity can be produced directly from the Sun’s radiation.
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Why is southern Spain a better site for solar power than the UK?
Generating electricity usingsolar power
AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Generating electricity — geothermal
In some volcanic areas hot water and steam rise to the surface. The steam can be tapped and used to drive turbines. This is known as geothermal energy.
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Why isn’t geothermal energy used everywhere?
AQA GCSE Science & Additional Science
Physics 1 Topic 4
Generating electricity on a small scale
Small-scale production of electricity may be useful in some areas and for some uses, e.g. hydroelectricity in remote areas and solar cells for roadside signs.
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What are the main advantages of small-scale production of electricity?
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