Investigation should include determining how wind speed and direction influence the amount of power produced by a wind turbine.
Teacher Resources:
Process/Skill Questions:
- Why or why not would your school provide a good location for a wind turbine?
- What might affect the amount of power generated, other than wind velocity?
- How is wind direction a factor in designing wind turbines?
- What are some tradeoffs to consider when determining the number of blades to be used?
- How do a variety of wind speeds affect the energy output of a wind turbine?
- How do a variety of wind directions affect the energy output of a wind turbine?
- When is there a desirable combination of wind speed and direction that optimize the ability of a wind turbine system to produce power?