From the windmills of yesterday to the wind turbines of today, the wind has long been harnessed as a source of energy. In fact, because it is a clean and renewable resource, the use of this energy is increasing throughout the world. In honor of Windmill Day (celebrated the second weekend in May by both the English and the Dutch), here’s an introduction to wind power. Learn more at the following sites.
From windmills to pinwheels
Meet Vollis Simpson, who harnesses the power of the wind to make art. Her whimsical windmill-powered pinwheels stand guard over her patio, spinning like giant robotic pinwheels. This virtual tour, created by the Science Museum of Minnesota, shows a “unique connection of science and art with the wind.” After visiting the courtyard (you’ll need Quick Time VR to watch the movies), don’t miss the Try These activities for instructions on how to spin a soda can or parachute a pinwheel.
Wind power
To convert wind into electricity, the blades of a turbine (a modern windmill) turn a shaft that is connected to a gearbox. This gearbox increases the rotational speed of the shaft that is connected to the generator that generates the electricity. California produces more electricity from the wind than any other state. And while California’s wind turbines don’t run year-round (air must blow at least twelve miles per hour to generate electricity), California’s turbines generate enough electricity to power a city the size of San Francisco for a year.
wind power
“Uneven heating of the Earth’s surface causes wind to blow. Many societies have long harnessed this energy to travel great distances and perform various tasks, such as crushing, sawing, and pumping water. Modern wind turbines using advanced technologies they can produce electricity for homes, businesses, and even utilities. For middle and high school students, this overview of wind power introduces the history, theory, and application of wind power today.