In a hydroelectric power plant more electrical power can be generated if water falls a greater height because :

Options

A. its temperature increases
B. larger amount of potential energy is converted into kinetic energy
C. the electricity content of water increases with height
D. more water molecules dissociate into ions

Explanation

To answer the question regarding why more electrical power can be generated in a hydroelectric power plant when water falls from a greater height, we can break down the explanation into several steps.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Potential Energy**:
- Water stored at a height has potential energy due to its position. The higher the water is stored, the more potential energy it possesses.
- **Hint**: Remember that potential energy is calculated using the formula \( PE = mgh \), where \( m \) is mass, \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity, and \( h \) is the height.

2. **Conversion of Potential Energy to Kinetic Energy**:
- When water is released from a height, this potential energy converts into kinetic energy as it falls. The faster the water moves, the more kinetic energy it has.
- **Hint**: Kinetic energy is given by the formula \( KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^2 \), where \( v \) is the velocity of the water.

3. **Impact on Turbine Rotation**:
- The falling water strikes the blades of a turbine, causing it to rotate. The greater the height from which the water falls, the greater the speed of the water, and thus, the more energy is imparted to the turbine.
- **Hint**: Think about how the speed of falling water affects the force exerted on the turbine blades.

4. **Electricity Generation**:
- The rotating turbine is connected to a generator. As the turbine spins, it drives the generator to produce electricity. More kinetic energy from faster-moving water results in more electrical power generated.
- **Hint**: Consider how the mechanical energy from the turbine is converted into electrical energy in the generator.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, in a hydroelectric power plant, more electrical power can be generated if water falls from a greater height because it increases the potential energy, which converts into kinetic energy, leading to greater turbine rotation and ultimately more electricity generation.

### Final Answer:
More electrical power can be generated in a hydroelectric power plant when water falls from a greater height due to the increased potential energy that converts into kinetic energy, resulting in greater turbine rotation and more electricity production.