1.1. Water for Energy Production

Try these first

1. 1.

   What role does water play in thermal power plants?

   Hint

   Think about why these plants need to manage heat.

2. 2.

   What is hydropower?

   Hint

   Recall a source of renewable energy that uses water.

3. 3.

   What is the main cooling method used in thermal power plants?

   • Water
   • Air
   • Steam

   Hint

   Think about what is typically used to cool systems in power plants.

4. 4.

   True or False: Hydropower plants consume water rather than returning it to rivers.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how the water cycle works in relation to hydropower.

5. 5.

   Propose a water management strategy for a region relying heavily on both hydropower and agriculture. Consider scenarios of drought and flood.

   Hint

   Think about how water conservation methods can benefit both sectors.

6. 6.

   Evaluate the sustainability implications of over-using water for thermal power generation in a region experiencing climate change.

   Hint

   Consider the long-term ecological impacts as well as economic effects.