Question

Which of the following is NOT one of the advantages of thermal power plants?
1. Require less space compared to hydro-electric plants.
2. Fuel used is mainly coal, which is quite inexpensive.
3. Rapidly changing load without any difficulty.
4. Operating cost is low as compared to nuclear and hydro-electric power plants.

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : Operating cost is low as compared to nuclear and hydro-electric power plants.

Thermal Power Plant (Steam Power Station):

• It converts the heat energy of coal combustion into electrical energy.
• A steam power station basically works on the Rankine cycle.
• Steam is produced in the boiler by utilizing the heat of coal combustion.
• The steam is then expanded in the prime mover (i.e., steam turbine) and is condensed in a condenser to be fed into the boiler again.
• The steam turbine drives the alternator which converts the mechanical energy of the turbine into electrical energy.
• This type of power station is suitable where coal and water are available in abundance and a large amount of electric power is to be generated.
   

Advantages:

• The fuel (i.e., coal) used is quite inexpensive.
• Less initial cost as compared to other generating stations.
• Less space is required as compared to the hydropower plants.
• It can be installed at any place irrespective of the existence of coal.
• The coal can be transported to the site of the plant by rail or road.
• It requires less space as compared to the hydroelectric power station.
• The cost of generation is lesser than that of the diesel power station.
• The power plant is able to withhold the changing rapidly load.
   

Disadvantages:

• It pollutes the atmosphere due to the production of a large amount of smoke and fumes.
• It is costlier in running or operating costs as compared to the hydroelectric plant and nuclear plant.