The diagram illustrates the process by which electricity is generated from wave power using a structure built into a cliff or sea wall. Overall, the mechanism relies on the movement of incoming waves to push air through a column, which drives a turbine connected to a generator, and this sequence involves four main stages.
In the first stage, a wave approaches the structure and enters the chamber through an opening at its base. As the water level inside the chamber rises, it forces the trapped air upwards through a narrow column. This upward rush of air then passes through a turbine positioned within the column, causing its blades to spin rapidly.
Once the wave recedes, the process is reversed: the water level in the chamber falls, drawing air back down through the column and past the turbine in the opposite direction. Owing to the turbine’s design, it continues to rotate regardless of the direction of airflow, meaning that both the incoming and outgoing motion of each wave contributes to its spin. Finally, the rotating turbine powers a generator, which converts this mechanical energy into electricity that is then supplied to the light bulb via a cable.
In summary, the continuous back-and-forth motion of waves creates a constant cycle of rising and falling air pressure within the chamber, enabling the turbine to rotate almost without interruption and thereby ensuring a steady supply of electricity.