Tidal energy | Class 10 | Geography | ICSE Board | Home Revise

Summary

Harnessing the power of oceanic tides, tidal energy can generate electricity. Floodgate dams are constructed to trap water during high tide, which then flows back through turbines when the tide recedes, generating power. In India, the Gulf of Kutch's ideal conditions support a 900-megawatt tidal energy plant by the National Hydro Power Corporation.

Takeaways

• 🌊 Oceanic tides have the potential to generate electricity.
• 🚧 Floodgate systems are used to harness tidal energy.
• 💧 Water flows into the floodgate during high tide and gets trapped.
• 🚫 The floodgate is closed to retain water after high tide.
• 🌉 The water is released when the tide falls, flowing back to the sea.
• 🔌 A pipe system carries the water through a power-generating turbine.
• 🇮🇳 In India, the Gulf of Kutch is an ideal location for tidal energy.
• 🏭 A 900-megawatt tidal energy power plant is established by NHPC.
• 🔋 Tidal energy is a renewable and sustainable power source.
• 🌐 Harnessing tidal energy contributes to global efforts in renewable energy.

Q & A

What is tidal energy?

Tidal energy is a form of hydropower that uses the ocean's tides to generate electricity.

How do floodgate tidal power plants work?

Floodgate tidal power plants work by allowing water to flow into an inlet during high tide and trapping it. When the tide falls, the trapped water is released through a pipe, which drives a turbine to generate electricity.

What is the purpose of the wire pipe in a floodgate tidal power plant?

The wire pipe in a floodgate tidal power plant is used to carry the trapped water from the floodgate to the turbine, which then drives the power generating system.

Why is the Gulf of Kutch considered ideal for tidal energy utilization?

The Gulf of Kutch provides ideal conditions for tidal energy due to its unique geographical features that result in significant tidal ranges, making it effective for tidal energy generation.

What is the capacity of the tidal energy power plant set up in the Gulf of Kutch?

The tidal energy power plant in the Gulf of Kutch has a capacity of 900 megawatts.

Who set up the 900 megawatt tidal energy power plant in the Gulf of Kutch?

The National Hydro Power Corporation set up the 900 megawatt tidal energy power plant in the Gulf of Kutch.

How does the tidal energy power plant contribute to the environment?

Tidal energy power plants contribute to the environment by providing a renewable source of energy that does not emit greenhouse gases, thus reducing the carbon footprint.

What are the challenges associated with tidal energy generation?

Challenges associated with tidal energy generation include the high initial cost of construction, the need for suitable geographical locations, and the potential impact on marine ecosystems.

Are there any limitations to the amount of electricity that can be generated by tidal energy?

Yes, the amount of electricity that can be generated by tidal energy is limited by factors such as the tidal range, the duration of tidal cycles, and the efficiency of the power generation system.

How does the efficiency of a tidal energy power plant compare to other renewable energy sources?

The efficiency of tidal energy power plants can be competitive with other renewable energy sources, but it depends on the specific conditions of the location and the technology used.

What are some other locations around the world that are suitable for tidal energy generation?

Other locations suitable for tidal energy generation include the Bay of Fundy in Canada, the Severn Estuary in the UK, and the French coast of Normandy.