Forces on Gravity Dam Video Lecture | Irrigation Engineering - Civil Engineering (CE)

7 videos|35 docs|31 tests

Top Courses for Civil Engineering (CE)

FAQs on Forces on Gravity Dam Video Lecture - Irrigation Engineering - Civil Engineering (CE)

1. What are the different types of forces acting on a gravity dam?
Ans. Gravity dams are subjected to various forces, including hydrostatic pressure, uplift pressure, seismic forces, and water pressure. Hydrostatic pressure refers to the force exerted by water on the dam due to its weight. Uplift pressure occurs when water seeps into the foundation of the dam, creating a force that tries to lift the dam. Seismic forces are caused by earthquakes and can lead to significant stress and deformation in the dam. Water pressure is another force that acts on the dam, particularly when the reservoir is at full capacity.
2. How does hydrostatic pressure affect a gravity dam?
Ans. Hydrostatic pressure is the force exerted by water on the dam due to its weight. This force increases with the depth of the water and can cause significant stress on the dam structure. The hydrostatic pressure acts perpendicular to the dam surface, trying to push it downstream. Engineers must consider this force while designing gravity dams to ensure they can withstand the pressure and prevent any potential failure or deformation.
3. What is uplift pressure in relation to gravity dams?
Ans. Uplift pressure is a force that occurs when water seeps into the foundation of a gravity dam. This water exerts pressure on the base of the dam, trying to lift it. Uplift pressure can be a significant concern as it can lead to instability and sliding of the dam. Engineers employ various measures to counteract uplift pressure, such as providing a watertight foundation or installing drainage systems to control the water seepage.
4. How do seismic forces affect the stability of a gravity dam?
Ans. Seismic forces, caused by earthquakes, can have a significant impact on the stability of a gravity dam. Earthquakes generate ground motions that induce dynamic forces on the dam, leading to stress and deformation. These forces can potentially exceed the design capacity of the dam, resulting in structural failure. To ensure the stability of gravity dams against seismic forces, engineers consider factors such as the dam's geometry, material properties, and the seismicity of the region during the design process.
5. What measures are taken to resist water pressure in a gravity dam?
Ans. Water pressure is an important consideration in the design of gravity dams, especially when the reservoir is at maximum capacity. To resist water pressure, engineers employ various measures, such as increasing the cross-sectional area of the dam, providing a suitable downstream slope, and incorporating adequate drainage systems. By increasing the cross-sectional area, the dam's weight increases, balancing the water pressure. The downstream slope helps dissipate the pressure, reducing the force acting on the dam. Additionally, drainage systems help control any seepage or buildup of water pressure within the dam.
Explore Courses for Civil Engineering (CE) exam
Signup for Free!
Signup to see your scores go up within 7 days! Learn & Practice with 1000+ FREE Notes, Videos & Tests.
10M+ students study on EduRev
Related Searches

Semester Notes

,

Important questions

,

mock tests for examination

,

Forces on Gravity Dam Video Lecture | Irrigation Engineering - Civil Engineering (CE)

,

Objective type Questions

,

practice quizzes

,

Summary

,

Forces on Gravity Dam Video Lecture | Irrigation Engineering - Civil Engineering (CE)

,

Exam

,

Forces on Gravity Dam Video Lecture | Irrigation Engineering - Civil Engineering (CE)

,

Extra Questions

,

shortcuts and tricks

,

study material

,

Viva Questions

,

past year papers

,

ppt

,

Previous Year Questions with Solutions

,

video lectures

,

Sample Paper

,

Free

,

pdf

,

MCQs

;