Hydro-Electricity

Generating electricity using water

Most of South Africa’s electricity is generated by burning coal.  This heats water which creates steam.  The steam is released onto the blades of a very large turbine which forces the wheel to turn.  The turbine shaft is connected to a rotating magnet connected to a generator which produces electricity. 

 

Falling water is used in a hydroelectric power station to turn a turbine at the base of a dam wall.  This is connected to a generator which produces electricity.