1. Mining: Coal is extracted from the ground through surface mining or underground mining.
2. Processing: The extracted coal is then crushed, cleaned, and transported to a power plant.
3. Combustion: Coal is burned in a boiler, releasing heat energy that turns water into steam.
4. Steam turbine: The high-pressure steam is directed to a steam turbine, causing the blades to rotate.
5. Generator: The spinning turbine shaft is connected to a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy.
6. Cooling: After passing through the turbine, the steam is cooled and condensed back into water, which is then recirculated to the boiler.
7. Emissions control: To minimize environmental impact, modern coal power plants employ emission control systems to reduce pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
Electricity generation from wind:
1. Wind turbines: Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical energy.
2. Blades: As the wind blows, it strikes the blades of the turbine, causing them to rotate.
3. Generator: The rotating blades are connected to a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy.
4. Grid connection: The electricity generated by wind turbines is fed into the electrical grid for distribution to consumers.
5. Fluctuating wind patterns: Wind power is intermittent, as it depends on the availability and strength of the wind. To ensure continuous electricity supply, wind farms are often combined with other sources like solar or hydroelectric power.
Both coal and wind power generation have advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, environmental impact, reliability, and scalability. The optimal energy mix for a region or country depends on various factors, including natural resources, energy policies, and sustainability goals.
