Science Common Sense

686 - What is the relationship between water and energy production?

Water and energy are connected in a big way. Here are a few ways they're related:

1. Cooling power plants: Most power plants need water to cool down the machines that make electricity. This is called cooling water. It's like when you splash water on your skin to cool down on a hot day.
2. Hydroelectric power: Water is used to make electricity in hydroelectric power plants. This is like a big dam that stores water, and when it's released, it turns a big wheel to make electricity.
3. Steam generation: Water is turned into steam to make electricity in many power plants. The steam then turns a wheel to make electricity.
4. Water treatment: Energy is needed to treat and purify water, making it safe for us to drink.

So, water is needed to make energy, and energy is needed to make water safe to drink. They're connected in a big circle!