Wind Energy
Iowa is a flat, windy state. This makes it a great place to harness the energy from wind. Explore how wind turbines take this energy and convert it to electricity to be used in our homes.
Using Wind Energy in Iowa
If you have ever driven on a highway in Iowa, you are sure to have seen wind turbines in a field. Over the last 20 years, wind energy has become an increasingly utilized alternative source of energy in Iowa.
Question
What might be the pros and cons of using the wind to produce energy?
How a Wind Turbine Works
Wind turbines are much bigger than they seem when they are up close.
Question
How might the energy of motion from a spinning wind turbine be able make it into your home to be used as electricity?
Wind Turbine Gear Box
In this cylinder, the energy from the relatively slow movement of the blades is sped up and passed on to the generator. This gear box is housed in the nacelle, way at the top of the turbine, and is over 15 feet long.
Question
What do you notice and wonder about the wind turbine gear box?
Wind Turbine Generator
The generator converts energy into electricity. This generator stands almost 8 feet tall off the ground and, when in use and is located at the top of the wind turbine in the nacelle.
Question
What do you notice and wonder about the wind turbine generator?