1. How do we generate electricity?

2. Before we jump into electricity production we need to understand energy transformations
Complete the Energy Transformation worksheet using the Phet Simulation

3. How do we generate electricity?
Many different types of energy can be transformed into electrical energy. The main method is using a generator system.

4. There are three main parts to a generator system:
Turbine: a rotor that is spun by water, wind or steam.
Shaft: connects the turbine and generator
Generator: a wire loop or coil that is surrounded by a magnet. The magnetic field created by the magnet pushes electrons in the wire causing them to flow.

5. The magnets create a magnetic field around the wire.
A wire loop or coil is located between two magnets. You can also move a magnet within a wire coil.
The magnets create a magnetic field around the wire.
As the wire spins (kinetic energy) the magnetic field causes electrons to flow in the wire. This flow of electrons powers electrical devices.

6. Activity
Go to page of the BC Science 9 Connections textbook. Choose one method of energy production that uses a generator system. Explain how the generator system works in your specific example. This can be in the form of labelled diagram or written explanation.