Science of Hydropower – Water Pressure and Flow Lab – Student

Summary

Students investigate how water height affects flow rate using a jug-and-tube model, then connect their findings to how hydroelectric dams convert potential energy into electricity. The student handout guides groups through hypothesis writing, three trials at four water levels, data tables, graphing, and six analysis questions linking lab results to real dam and turbine design. Pairs directly with the teacher guide for a complete hands-on lab for high school Earth science or APES.