Wind+Power

How is wind energy formed? Wind is simply air in motion. It is caused by the uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the sun.

How do we get wind energy? Wind energy is produced by wind speeds above 12 to 14 miles per hour. Blowing wind spins the blades on a wind turbine. The blades of the turbine are attached to a hub that is mounted on a turning shaft. The shaft goes through a gear transmission box where the turning speed is increased. The transmission is attached to a high speed shaft which turns a generator that makes electricity.

How do we use wind energy? We use wind energy for electricity.

3 advantages of wind energy
 * 1) It is a clean energy (no pollution).
 * 2) It is inexhaustible.
 * 3) Wind is free, wind farms need no fuel.

3 disadvantages of wind energy
 * 1) The wind turbines can hurt birds.
 * 2) The wind turbines aren't pretty.
 * 3) The wind is not always predictable - some days have no wind.