Answer:
This hydroelectric power plant has the capability of producing around 78.4 MW of electric energy.
Explanation:
First, we calculate the pressure the water exerts or gains when it travels 200 m below the intake. W have the data:
Density of water = ρ = 1000 kg/m^3
Acceleration due to gravity = g = 9.8 m/s²
Height lost = h = 200 m
Volume flow rate = 40 m^3/s
The pressure difference, is now given as:
ΔP = ρgh
ΔP = (1000 kg/m^3)(9.8 m/s²)(200 m)
ΔP = 1960000 Pa = 1.96 MPa
Now, we calculate the power capacity of this flow:
Power = ΔP(Volume flow rate)
Power = (1960000 N/m²)(40 m^3/s)
Power = 78400000 Watt
Power = 78.4 MW
Thus, this plant can produce at max 78.4 MW. The actual power produced will be slightly less than this due of the losses and efficiency of turbine system used.
