The digram below illustrates how electricity is generated by a hydroelectric dam. A hydroelectric dam is using water to generate electricity. It can be a long and complicated process, however the diagram clearing breaks down the main processes to produce electricity.
Firstly, the construction of a large dam is required. A dam is a manmade body of water, if large enough can turn into a reservoir. The water from the reservoir is forced through an intake. It then flows down a small narrow tunnel called a penstock, causing an increase of pressure, which as a result makes the turbine spin.
After that, the access water leaves through a wider passageway, and into a river. While, the turbine spinning converts into electricity. This electricity is created through the generator within the powerhouse. The electricity formed exits the powerhouse via small wires and cables where it can be used over long distances.
With this process, there is no harmful byproducts created, as it just during hydrostatic pressure from the water to produce electricity. As the water exits via the river, it means that this process is renewable. However, the creation of the dam can cause short term negative effects, as during the construction of the dam, there can be loss of habitat and a damaged ecosystem during this process.