Did you know that we can get electricity from water?! This is called Hydropower and it's power that is generated by moving water like rivers, streams, or dams. Hydropower is an incredible source of renewable energy that people have used for centuries. Let's learn a little more about hydropower!
Have you ever walked across a river and noticed the force of the water? It takes a lot of force to move water and this is what is used to create power. To harness this energy, we channel water to flow through a pipe. In the pipe, there are turbines that spin. Similar to the way wind turbines work, as they are moved by the water they are spinning an electric generator which holds all the electricity. This electricity is then used to power homes and businesses!
Hydropower Fun Facts
Hydropower use dates back to the Ancient Romans
There are over 2,000 hydropower plants in the US
It is more reliable than wind or solar power
The first hydropower plant in the US was Niagra Falls
Hydropower activities are great to explore because it provides a variety of learning skills. In our February STEM Kit, your Jr. Scientist will be making their own hydropower wheel. They'll start by drawing out a model and visualizing what they'll need to create in order for the wheel to spin and harness the energy! Then they'll build their wheel using all the materials provided. This is a great fine motor activity! Once it's assembled, time to test! Is your wheel working? If not, what can be done to make it work!
We hope you had fun learning about hydropower with us today! After learning more about it, would you consider this is a great source of power? Why or why not?
Our hands-on learning STEM Subscription Box will not disappoint! GIGIL STEM Kits are a great opportunity to bring STEM Education home in a fun and interactive way. Did you know GIGIL STEM Kits accept charter funds? If you'd like us to apply to become a vendor for your charter school, email us at hello@gigilstemkits.com!