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AP Environmental Science 6.9: Hydroelectricity

Practice AP Environmental Science questions on dams, reservoirs, river turbines, tidal energy, habitat change, costs, and air pollution.

Syllabus
Effective Fall 2025
Course
AP Environmental Science

Covered syllabus points

ENG-3.L—Describe the use of hydroelectricity in power generationENG-3.M—Describe the effects of the use of hydroelectricity in power generation on the environment

6.9 Hydroelectric Power question 1

[Maximum number: 5]

A homeowner in the Northern Hemisphere is considering installing photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of the home to help provide electricity for the home. The homeowner has read conflicting reports on which compass direction the panels should face to maximize the amount of electricity (in kWh) that the panels can produce.

Question (a)

(a)

The diagram below shows another way of generating electricity using a renewable resource. The arrows indicate the flow of water.

HYDROELECTRIC POWER GENERATION

HYDROELECTRIC POWER GENERATION

[ 4 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Identify the location shown in the diagram where the kinetic energy of the water is transformed into mechanical energy.

[ 1 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Explain why the water in the storage reservoir has potential energy that is useful in hydroelectric power generation.

[ 1 ]

Question (iii)

(iii)

Explain how coupling hydroelectric power with solar or wind power is an advantage to providing a constant source of electricity to a community.

[ 1 ]

Question (iv)

(iv)

Explain how a hydroelectric power system, like the one depicted, may be negatively affected by climate change.

[ 1 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Over time, reservoirs that form behind dams can undergo changes.

[ 1 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Explain the effect of increased silt in the reservoir on the hydroelectric power system.

[ 1 ]
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