Question

Which principle is used in hydraulic turbines?

Answer 1

In order to understand the principle which is used in hydraulic turbines, first we will understand the concept of hydroelectricity power production. Then we will discuss the various components of it and finally we will understand the basic principle of its working.

Complete answer:
There are various ways to produce electricity. We can use various power plants depending upon the availability of that particular source. One of the most widely used power plants are the hydroelectric power plants. Hydroelectric power plants are basically designed to produce electricity with the help of flowing water. The energy produced by this method is known as hydro energy.

A hydraulic Turbine is defined as a device which converts the energy present in the stream of fluid into mechanical energy by passing it through a system of moving blades which in return causes the wheel to rotate. The principle of a hydraulic turbine is based on Newton's second law of motion. It states that the force is directly proportional to the change in momentum. If there is any change in the momentum of the water, then a force is generated as a result.

The hydraulic turbine blades are moved against the flow of water which causes a change in the momentum of it. As the momentum changes, a resulting pressure force is generated which rotates the turbine. When the change in momentum is high, then the force generated is high, which in turn increases the energy conversion.

Note: The other components of a hydroelectricity power plant, other than turbine, are: reservoir, generator and powerhouse. A reservoir is the component where the water is stored. The generator is used to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Then the energy which is produced in this process is stored in a powerhouse.