Wind

Wind is a form of solar energy. Winds are caused by the uneven heating of the atmosphere by the sun, the irregularities of the earth's surface, and rotation of the earth. Wind flow patterns are modified by the earth's terrain, bodies of water, and vegetative cover. This wind flow, or motion energy, when "harvested" by modern wind turbines, can be used to generate electricity. Wind can be used to our advantage and we are just beginning to tap into its potential.

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Chinook Winds Essentially what Chinook winds are is where winds rolls over a hill and build up speed as it travels down the hillside. As students of Colorado State University and residents of Fort Collins, we are obviously familiar with these winds. They are the ones that push you off your bike when walking to class. They are common in North America, in various mountain ranges.



Can be harmful and even deadly depending on the severity of the wind.