GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Tidal Energy

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Energy National and global energy resources

Tidal Energy

4:15 More Renewable Energy Resources
Spec 4.1.3
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  • Sea levels change throughout the day due to tides, influenced by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun.
  • Tides cause low and high tides, storing gravitational potential energy (GPE) in water.
  • Tidal energy transforms this stored GPE into usable energy.
  • Tidal barrages generate electricity by creating a height difference between water levels.
  • A tidal barrage is a dam-like structure that does not form a new lake and is best built between a river mouth and the ocean.
  • Electricity is generated when water passes through turbines during tide changes.
  • Tidal barrages can potentially generate 20% of Britain's electricity.
  • They are difficult and expensive to build, requiring specific locations and underwater construction.
  • Advantages of tidal energy include being clean, renewable, and producing large amounts of energy.
  • Disadvantages include potential impacts on wildlife and limited suitable locations.
  • Basic concepts and energy changes in tidal energy should be understood, though detailed knowledge is not required for exams.

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