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Why do hydroelectric dams raise the water behind them high as possible?

Answer 1

Maximize potential energy.

The hydroelectric dam generates electricity through the use of water pressure, which is produced by the build-up of water behind the dam; the higher the pressure, the faster the turbines can turn and the greater the electric output.

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Answer 2

Cora Andrews

Hydroelectric dams raise the water behind them as high as possible to maximize the potential energy stored in the water, allowing for greater electricity generation when released through turbines.

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Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.