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Water Hammer – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Hydroelectric Power Glossary Terms

I. What is Water Hammer? Water hammer, also known as hydraulic shock, is a phenomenon that occurs in fluid flow systems when a sudden change in flow velocity causes a pressure surge within the system. This pressure surge can result in significant damage to pipelines, valves, and other components of the system. Water hammer is … Read more

Francis Turbine – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Hydroelectric Power Glossary Terms

I. What is a Francis Turbine? A Francis Turbine is a type of water turbine that is used for hydroelectric power generation. It was developed by American engineer James B. Francis in the mid-19th century and is one of the most common types of turbines used in hydroelectric power plants around the world. The Francis … Read more

Coal – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Fossil Fuels Glossary Terms

I. What is Coal? Coal is a fossil fuel that is formed from the remains of plants that lived millions of years ago. It is a black or brownish-black sedimentary rock that is composed mainly of carbon, along with small amounts of other elements such as sulfur, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Coal is one of … Read more

Geothermal Energy Education – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Geothermal Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Geothermal Energy? Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that harnesses the heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface. This heat is produced by the decay of radioactive materials in the Earth’s core and is constantly replenished. Geothermal energy is considered a clean and sustainable energy source because it produces minimal greenhouse gas … Read more

Wind Turbine Fire Safety – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Wind Energy Glossary Terms

What causes wind turbine fires? Wind turbine fires can be caused by a variety of factors, including mechanical failures, electrical malfunctions, lightning strikes, and even arson. Mechanical failures, such as gearbox or bearing failures, can generate excessive heat and lead to a fire. Electrical malfunctions, such as short circuits or overheating of electrical components, can … Read more

Electroluminescence (EL) Imaging – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Solar Energy Glossary Terms

What is Electroluminescence (EL) Imaging? Electroluminescence (EL) imaging is a non-destructive testing technique used in various industries, including solar energy, to detect defects and assess the quality of materials. EL imaging involves the use of an electroluminescent material that emits light when an electric current is passed through it. This light emission allows for the … Read more

Fossil Fuel Market – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Fossil Fuels Glossary Terms

I. What are Fossil Fuels? Fossil fuels are natural resources that are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that lived millions of years ago. These organic materials undergo a process of decomposition and transformation over time, resulting in the creation of coal, oil, and natural gas. Fossil fuels are non-renewable sources of … Read more

Short-Circuit Current (Isc) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Solar Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Short-Circuit Current (Isc)? Short-circuit current, often referred to as Isc, is an important parameter in the field of solar energy systems. It is the maximum current that can flow through a solar panel when its terminals are short-circuited. In other words, Isc represents the current that is generated by the solar panel … Read more

Flow Duration Curve – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Hydroelectric Power Glossary Terms

I. What is a Flow Duration Curve? A Flow Duration Curve (FDC) is a graphical representation of streamflow data that shows the percentage of time that a certain flow rate is equaled or exceeded. In simpler terms, it is a plot of flow rates against the percentage of time that those flow rates are exceeded. … Read more

Hydropower and Community Engagement – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Hydroelectric Power Glossary Terms

I. What is Hydropower? Hydropower is a renewable energy source that harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity. It is one of the oldest and most widely used forms of renewable energy, dating back to ancient civilizations that used water wheels to grind grain and power machinery. Today, hydropower accounts for approximately 16% … Read more