How do wind turbines contribute to energy production?

Wind turbines play a vital role in energy production by harnessing the kinetic energy of the wind and converting it into mechanical energy. When wind blows, it causes the blades of the turbine to spin. This rotational movement is then used to drive a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy. This process is clean and renewable, as it relies on the natural movement of air rather than burning fossil fuels or relying on sunlight.

The other options describe different energy conversion processes that are not associated with wind turbines. For example, converting sunlight into chemical energy refers to photosynthesis or solar thermal processes. Harnessing solar panels pertains to the use of photovoltaic cells to directly convert sunlight into electricity, which is a separate technology altogether. Lastly, using coal for power generation involves combustion to produce energy, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and is not aligned with the sustainable practices promoted by wind energy systems. Thus, the focus on converting wind energy into mechanical energy accurately describes how wind turbines function in generating electricity.