ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Grand Coulee

Grand Coulee is a big place where water is controlled to make electricity. It's like a big machine made by humans, which works by using water from a river. This machine is really great because it helps to provide many people with electricity for their homes and businesses.

The Grand Coulee area is located in the United States, in the state of Washington. It's named after a canyon there that was formed by a river long ago. This canyon is really big and beautiful and attracts many tourists who come to see it.

Inside the Grand Coulee, there are big dams that block the water from the river. The dams are like giant walls that stop the water from flowing downstream. This creates a big lake behind the dam, with lots of water that can be used to make electricity.

When the water is trapped behind the dam, it creates a lot of pressure. The pressure is just like when you put your thumb over the end of a garden hose, and the water comes out really fast. The pressure of the water behind the dam is so strong that it can spin big turbines, which generate electricity.

The electricity that is made in the Grand Coulee goes through wires to power homes and businesses all across Washington state, and even to other states too. This is really important because electricity helps us do lots of things, like turning on our lights, charging our phones, and watching TV.

In the Grand Coulee, there are also big pumps that can move water from one place to another. This is really helpful because sometimes there is too much water in one area, and not enough in another. The pumps can move water around to where it's needed most, like for farms and cities that need water for drinking and irrigation.

Overall, the Grand Coulee is a really special place because it helps us generate lots of electricity, which is important for our daily lives. It's also really beautiful, with a big canyon and a big lake, and lots of wildlife that live there.