Describe the process by which electricity is generated through the combustion of coal.

In the first step of electricity generation through coal combustion, we need to burn the coal. The coal is ground into powder-like consistency and burnt in a furnace at very high temperatures, around 1500-1700°C. This process results in releasing a lot of heat energy and generating a gas mixture primarily of carbon dioxide (CO2), water vapor (H2O), nitrogen (N2), and other pollutants including sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

The next step is to convert the heat energy generated during coal combustion into a usable form. The thermal energy obtained from the furnace is used to heat water in a boiler and produce high-pressure steam. The steam, at a high temperature and pressure, is then sent to a turbine.

The high-pressure steam produced in the boiler is used to power a turbine. A turbine is a large mechanical device with several blades (similar to a fan) that are attached to a shaft. The steam coming from the boiler is directed onto the turbine blades, which cause the turbine to rotate. This rotation converts thermal energy from the steam into mechanical energy. The turbine shaft is connected to a generator, which is responsible for converting the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy. The generator is made up of a stationary part called the stator and a rotating part called the rotor. Inside the generator, there are coils made of conductive materials like copper. As the rotor rotates, it induces a flow of electrons in the conductive coils, generating electricity.

After electricity is generated in the generator, it is sent to transformers to increase its voltage. High voltages help in transmitting electricity over long distances with minimal loss. The electricity is then transmitted through power lines to homes, businesses, or other areas where it is needed. In summary, the process of electricity generation through coal combustion involves burning coal to obtain thermal energy, converting the energy to high-pressure steam, using the steam to power a turbine and generator, and finally transmitting the electricity to the end-users.