Wind Energy
Wind turbines convert kinetic energy of moving air into electrical energy. Power depends strongly on wind speed and blade size.
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Power from wind
The power available in wind through area A with air density ρ and speed v is proportional to ρ A v³. A turbine captures only a fraction of this due to Betz limit and practical losses. Small increases in wind speed greatly increase available power.
✔ Key takeaway: Available wind power ∝ v³; wind speed is a critical factor.
Link to simulator: Use the wind energy simulator to see how power vs wind speed changes with blade length and efficiency.
💭 Think about this:
Why is a location with slightly higher average wind speed often much better for wind farms?