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Chapter 15: Problem 9

Why are dams thicker at the bottom than at the top?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Dams are thicker at the bottom than at the top because the pressure at the bottom of a dam is greater due to the weight of the water above. The thicker base enables the dam to withstand this greater pressure and remain stable.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the principles of fluid pressure

The pressure in a fluid, such as water, increases with depth. This is due to the weight of the fluid above exerting pressure on the fluid below. This is given by the equation \( P = \rho gh \) where \( P \) is the pressure, \( \rho \) is the fluid density, \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity and \( h \) is the height of fluid column.
02

Apply the principles to the structure of a dam

A dam holds back water, which exerts pressure on the dam wall. The pressure is greater at the bottom of the dam because there is more water above pushing down due to gravity. Thus, the dam experiences higher pressure at the bottom than at the top.
03

Explain why the dam is thicker at the bottom

To resist this greater pressure at its base, a dam needs to be stronger, hence thicker, at the bottom than at the top. This structural design helps to ensure stability and prevent the dam from collapsing under the pressure of the water it's holding back.

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