Vindmølle

Vindmølle, also known as a windmill, is a structure that converts the energy of the wind into rotational energy to mill grain, pump water, or generate electricity. The earliest known windmills were used for grinding grain, and they were developed in Persia in the 7th century. The technology spread to Europe in the 12th century, where windmills became a common sight in the countryside.

Windmills consist of a tall tower, a rotor with blades, and a mechanism to convert the rotational energy into useful work. The rotor is typically positioned at the top of the tower to capture the maximum amount of wind energy. The blades are designed to catch the wind and cause the rotor to spin, which in turn drives the mechanism below.

In the Netherlands, windmills were used extensively for draining water from low-lying areas, a process known as poldering. These windmills, often called "polder mills," were crucial in the development of the Dutch landscape and agriculture.

Modern windmills, or wind turbines, are used to generate electricity. They are much larger and more efficient than traditional windmills, with rotors that can be up to 100 meters in diameter. Wind turbines are a key component of renewable energy strategies, as they produce clean, emissions-free electricity.

The design and efficiency of windmills have evolved significantly over time, from simple vertical-axis windmills to the horizontal-axis wind turbines used today. Despite these advancements, the basic principle of harnessing wind energy remains the same.