Understanding Dams
What is a dam?
A structure built to block or contain the flow of water.
These machines in dams can accidentally kill fish. What are they called?
What are hydro turbines?
How do hydroelectric power plants produce electricity?
A: They capture the kinetic energy of moving water and convert it into electrical energy.
TRUE OR FALSE
Water is a no-cost resource
TRUE
Who were the Mesopotamians?
These ancient people were likely the first to build dams.
What is hydroelectricity?
This clean energy source is one of the biggest advantages of dams.
What is hydroelectric power?
Electricity produced from the kinetic energy of moving water over a dam or waterfall.
TRUE or FALSE
The bat has kinetic energy because it is stored energy and you have not swung the bat yet
As you swing at the ball, the kinetic energy is converted to potential energy which is the energy of motion
FALSE
The bat has potential energy because it is stored energy and you have not swung the bat yet
As you swing at the ball, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy which is the energy of motion
What is the Jawa Dam?
This is the oldest known dam, located in modern-day Jordan.
How do dams impact fish migration?
This migration problem occurs when dams prevent fish from traveling upstream.
Q: What is kinetic energy?
A: The energy an object has when it is moving.
TRUE or FALSE
Delta can form in the reservoir.
True
What are the three main reasons that people build dams?
1. Control flooding in an area
2. Improve Navigation of a river
3. Hydropower for energy
Where do you find pollutants?
Trapped sediment may hold these harmful substances.
Q: What is potential energy?
BONUS: What is an example of it?
A: Stored energy that is waiting to be used.
An example is holding a baseball bat ready to swing.
TRUE or FALSE
Dams do not affect all living things around them.
FALSE
Dams DO affect all living things around them.
What is irrigation?
This benefit helps farmers get the water they need for crops.
Erosion at the base of a dam can weaken this part of the dam.
Q: Why is hydropower considered safe?
A: It uses natural water flow and does not rely on hazardous fuels.
TRUE or FALSE
Hydropower does not contribute to air pollution.
TRUE