Question

Explain the working of a windmill.

Answer 1

Principle: Windmill is a device that converts the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical energy.

Working:

1. Since ancient times, windmills have been used for the purpose of milling flour from cereals, cutting wood, and also on agricultural farms to pump and stock water for farm needs.
2. A windmill usually has three blades for efficient working and a powerful engine.
3. When the high-speed wind blows over the windmill, the blades rotate.
4. The blades move such that the high-speed shaft starts to spin (as seen in the figure), connected to a generator which results in the production of electricity.
5. The generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
6. The blades always rotate in a clockwise direction.

In this way, the wind energy is converted to rotational and ultimately the mechanical or electrical energy.