Scientists know wind is a renewable resource, but is it an efficient one? Scholars adjust the propeller diameter on a wind turbine, the wind speed, and the conversion efficiency within range to learn about the efficiency of these machines. The resource briefly explains Betz's Law and offers questions about the conversion factors.

Concepts

wind turbines, power, fuel efficiency, alternative energy sources, energy, renewable energy sources, energy transfer

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Introduce Betz's law and how it relates to energy efficiency

Classroom Considerations

• Requires a free CK-12 account to access the interactive
• Assumes prior knowledge of power, efficiency, and how to interpret graphs

Pros

• Integrates math, science, and technology topics
• Offers a walk through video for those struggling to understand the controls

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.9-10.4 RST.11-12.4