Students will explore wind turbine performance and efficiency through the concept of wind shear and turbulence. Students will complete an experiment with kites and streamers that demonstrates where wind seems to be fastest and smoothest. They will record the data they gather on worksheets and answer questions.
The Details
Next Generation Science Standards
Disciplinary Core Ideas
Cross-Cutting Concepts
Learning Objectives
– Understand and be able to explain the concept of wind shear
– Understand and be able to explain the concept of wind turbulence
– Know how wind shear and turbulence affect wind turbine performance
– Understand how trees, buildings, and other obstacles contribute to turbulence
Materials
– A large sturdy, single-line kite (a large helium balloon will also work)
– Streamers, caution tape, or field marking tape
– Measuring tape
– Protractor
– Medium-sized bucket or box
– Student reading passages and student worksheets
– Wind speed meter (recommended)
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