Question

Electricity generated by burning fossil – fuels is called ________.
A. Hydroelectricity
B. Tidal electricity
C. Thermal electricity
D. Nuclear energy

Answer 1

Hint: Electricity is generated from conventional and non – conventional energy sources. Fossil fuel is burnt in a thermal power plant to generate electricity. Similarly, in a Hydro-power plant, the electricity is generated from the water; in a tidal power plant the electricity is generated from the tides, and in the nuclear power station, the electricity is generated from the nuclear reaction.

Complete step-by-step answer:
A thermal power station is a fossil – fuel power station, which burns fossil fuels (such as coal or natural gas) to produce electricity. This electricity is known as Thermal electricity. Here, the heat energy of the coal combustion is converted into electrical energy. The thermal power station basically works on the Rankine cycle. Steam is produced in the boiler by utilizing the heat of combustion of coal. The steam is then expanded in the prime mover (i.e., steam turbine) and is condensed in the condenser to be fed into the boiler again. The steam turbine drives the alternator and converts the mechanical energy of the turbine into electrical energy. This type of power station is most suitable where coal and water are available in abundance and a large amount of electric power is to be generated. The fuel used here is quite cheap. The coal can be transported to the site of the plant either by rail or road.

Thus, option (C) is correct.

Note: A thermal power station is also known as the steam power plant as steam is produced by using the energy of the fossil fuels which are burnt. This power plant has its advantages and also disadvantages.