Activity Based
Forces
Dams
Retaining Walls
Real Life Examples
100

Why would paper be a poor choice for a real life dam? (One reason)

- Lack of structural strength

- Permeable

- Lack of durability

100

What two words describe a force?

Push / Pull

100

Provide one example of a suitable material to construct a dam with

- Concrete

- Stone/Masonry

- Steel

100

What's the difference between a retaining wall and a dam?

A retaining wall focuses on soil retention while dams are intended for water management/control

100

Provide the name of one real life example of a dam

Hoover Dam

200

When the dam began to fail, why did the marbles deform the bottom section of the cardboard first?

Pressure increases with depth

200

What force is responsible for keeping us grounded on Earth?

Gravity

200

What are the three types of dams?

1. Buttress

2. Arch

3. Embankment

200

What shape are retaining walls?

L-Shape

200

What does the term "hydroelectric" mean?

The generation of electricity using the flow of water

300

What benefits are there of using an arch shaped dam? (One example)

-  Structural strength - the curved design efficiently distributes the force of water 

- Uses less material (more efficient)

300

If you slide a book across the table, what force will act on the book in the opposite direction?

Friction

300

What are all the forces that act on dams?

Gravity, pressure

300

How does a retaining wall's shape prevent it from falling over?

The soil is able to provide support to the retaining wall

300

What's a negative environmental impact of constructing a dam? (One example)

- CO2 emissions

- Disrupts wildlife

- Erosion of surrounding land