When water falls through a dam and turns a turbine connected

to a generator, electricity is produced. This electricity is often

used to light our homes and offices. Which of the following

shows the energy transformations that occur?

A

Electrical → light → mechanical

B

Chemical → mechanical → electrical

C

Mechanical → chemical → light

D

Mechanical → electrical → light

The energy transformations that occur is Mechanical → electrical → light.

Explanation:

When the water falls through the dam the gravitational potential energy of water is transformed into kinetic energy. This energy rotates the turbine (mechanical energy) connected to a generator. Now this mechanical energy is converted into electrical form through the process of electromagnetic induction (when a conductor cuts the magnetic field, electricity is produced). The electricity thus produced is driven to different offices and houses through wires. By drawing this current we light our homes and offices.