Learning Goals:

1. Relate that electricity can be created from moving water.
2. Describe how typical hydro-electric generators convert kinetic energy into mechanical energy.
3. Investigate relationship of changing pressure/volume effects electricity production.
4. List several ways to alter pressure and flow as it relates to the Pelton Wheel.

Handouts

• Hydroelectric Power Plant Lab Worksheet

Classroom Supplies

• 3/16″ x 6″ drill bit and drill
• 3 in 1 Oil or other oil suitable for lubrication
• Several LED Shaking Flashlight

Group Supplies (up to 25 per group)

• 1 RB Manufacturing Pelton Wheel mini hydro-electric generator
• 2 Multimeters
• 5 Test leads with alligator clips
• Air nozzle / inline regulator / male air connector
• Safety glasses (per student)
• Optional: 1 infinity bulb
• Optional: 1 Westinghouse 12VAC GY6.35 pin base Halogen bulb

Important Links

• Lesson Plan

Next Generation Science Standards

3-5 Engineering Design

• 3-5-ETS1-1: Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified crietria for success and constraints on materials, time, or costs.
• 3-5-ETS1-2: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
• 3-5-ETS1-3: Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

M.S. Engineering Design

• MS-ETS1-1: Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.
• MS-ETS1-2: Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
• MS-ETS1-3: Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.
• MS-ETS1-4: Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.

H.S. Engineering Design

• HS-ETS1-1: Analyze a major global challenge to specify qualitative and quantitative criteria and constraints for solutions that account for societal needs and wants.
• HS-ETS1-2: Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.
• HS-ETS1-3: Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and aesthetics, as well as possible social, cultural, and environmental impacts.