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From: Infinite Potential Mission 4: Energy Independence (pp: 75)
Wind Power

In this activity, you will construct a basic wind turbine. After observing it in action, you will analyze the design and propose improvements to its generating capabilities. Then, you will test your suggestions to uncover the most efficient model.
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Wind Power

Windmills
Harnessing the power of the
wind allows us to use this
inexhaustible energy source.

Although most of the world’s electrical energy supply is produced in fossil fuelpowered plants, Martin Keller believes in a diverse energy portfolio. Advances in technology have lead to increased usage of biofuels and wind turbines. Wind turbines depend upon the natural movement of air to spin a generator’s shaft. Unlike the burning of carbon-based fuel, the harnessing of wind to generate electrical energy does not release greenhouse gas emissions.

In this activity, you will construct a basic wind turbine. After observing it in action, you will analyze the design and propose improvements to its generating capabilities. Then, you will test your suggestions to determine the most efficient model.

Materials
  • scissors
  • fan
  • cork or rubber stoppers
  • 2 connecting wires (with alligator clips)

Lab Prep
  1. Carefully use the pushpin to place two holes in the center of each end of the stopper.
  2. Insert the shaft of the motor into the hole made at one end of the stopper. Make sure that the attachment is secure.
  3. Download the Lab 1 Data Sheet. Cut out the pinwheel template according to the instructions provided.
  4. Bend the dotted tip of each of the four sections of the cut paper to the center of the square. The bent paper should form a pinwheel design, which is now your turbine.
  5. Carefully insert a pushpin through each of the four blade dots. Continue inserting the pushpin into the central dot. Then, insert the end of the pushpin into the free end of the stopper.
  6. Use tape to attach the motor to the edge of a table. Make sure that the turbine spins freely.
  7. Use the alligator clip connectors to attach the motor leads to the multimeter. Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage.

Make Observations
  1. Blow on the turbine. How does this affect the measured voltage? Does varying the force of the wind affect the measured voltage? Explain any relationship you observe.
  2. As a class, review any safety concerns associated with an electric fan. Your instructor will turn on one or more classroom fans. Observe how the moving air affects your turbine.
  3. Observe a turbine that is in the direct path of the air flow from the fan and one that is not. How does the position of the turbine affect the voltage generated?
  4. Consider the setup you have constructed. Make a list of different factors that might affect the efficiency of this energy transfer and transformation. How can the design be improved? Which of these factors can you explore by extending your inquiry?
  5. Discuss your inquiry extension with your instructor. With your instructor’s approval, explore how changes in design can improve the amount of voltage generated.
Journal Question

Journal Question
Compare and contrast a wind turbine that generates electrical energy with a windmill that is constructed to grind corn or pump water. Use the terms transfer and transformation in your answer.

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