Harnessing Wind Energy: The Science Behind Modern Wind Turbines

The video explores the evolution and functioning of wind turbines, highlighting their ability to convert wind energy into electricity. It delves into the design of turbine blades, the role of aerodynamics, and the importance of gearboxes in increasing rotational speed. The video also explains the mechanisms for aligning turbines with wind direction and discusses the theoretical efficiency limit known as Betz's limit.

What is the primary function of modern wind turbines?

• To convert wind energy into electricity

• To store wind energy

• To measure wind speed

• To reduce air pollution

How do wind turbine blades achieve rotation?

• By producing lift force with airfoil technology

• Through hydraulic pressure

• By using solar panels

• By magnetic levitation

Why can't the rotation of wind turbine blades be directly coupled to a generator?

• Because the generator is too small

• Due to noise and mechanical strength issues

• Due to lack of space

• Because the blades rotate too fast

What is the role of the gearbox in a wind turbine?

• To cool down the system

• To slow down the blade rotation

• To increase the speed for the generator

• To store energy

How does a wind turbine adjust to changes in wind direction?

• By changing the blade length

• By rotating the entire tower

• Through a yawing mechanism controlled by sensors

• By using a manual lever

What mechanism ensures the blades are at the optimum angle of attack?

• Gearbox adjustment

• Yawing mechanism

• Blade tilting mechanism

• Blade length adjustment

What happens to wind speed downstream of a wind turbine?

• It increases

• It remains the same

• It decreases

• It becomes zero

What is Betz's limit?

• The maximum number of blades a turbine can have

• The minimum wind speed required for operation

• The maximum efficiency a wind turbine can achieve

• The maximum height a wind turbine can reach

Why can't a wind turbine absorb 100% of the wind's kinetic energy?

• Because of electrical constraints

• Due to the need for some exit wind speed

• Because of mechanical limitations

• Due to environmental regulations

What is the theoretical maximum efficiency a wind turbine can achieve according to Betz's limit?

• 50%

• 59.3%

• 75%

• 100%