Acts on the upstream and downstream faces of the dam

Dams are essential structures that are constructed to control the flow of water in rivers and prevent flooding. Dams are designed to withstand various forces that act on them, both upstream and downstream. Some of these forces include water pressure, wave pressure, silt pressure, and wind pressure.

Water Pressure

Water pressure is one of the primary forces that act on the upstream and downstream faces of the dam. The pressure exerted by water on the dam is proportional to the depth of water and the area of the dam. As the depth of water increases, the pressure exerted by water on the dam increases. Therefore, dams are designed to withstand the maximum water pressure that can be exerted on them. The water pressure on the upstream face of the dam is typically higher than that on the downstream face. This is because the upstream face of the dam is exposed to the full force of the water.

Wave Pressure

Another force that acts on the upstream and downstream faces of the dam is wave pressure. Wave pressure is caused by the wind blowing over the surface of the water, which creates waves. The waves then exert pressure on the dam. The wave pressure on the upstream face of the dam is typically higher than that on the downstream face. This is because the upstream face of the dam is exposed to the full force of the waves.

Silt Pressure

Silt pressure is caused by the buildup of silt on the upstream face of the dam. Silt is a mixture of soil, sand, and other particles that are carried by the water. As the water passes over the dam, the silt settles on the upstream face of the dam, exerting pressure on it. Silt pressure can reduce the strength of the dam over time, so it is essential to control the buildup of silt.

Wind Pressure

Wind pressure is caused by the wind blowing over the surface of the dam. The wind can exert pressure on both the upstream and downstream faces of the dam. The wind pressure on the upstream face of the dam is typically higher than that on the downstream face. This is because the upstream face of the dam is more exposed to the wind.

In conclusion, dams are designed to withstand various forces that act on them, both upstream and downstream. The primary forces include water pressure, wave pressure, silt pressure, and wind pressure. The design of the dam takes into consideration the maximum forces that can be exerted on it to ensure that it can withstand them.