That Dam Problem

Dams pose a number of interesting problems that go from the Physics required to Engineer the Dam and to derive Electricity from the structure when it is completed to the Biological and Societal Consequences of constructing the Dam. In this lesson we plan to explore and the basic Physics as ask the reader to explore the consequences of structure to the people and environments located around the dam.

We will be using the Hoover Dam as a reference for our study of dams. The Hoover Dam is considered one of the top 10 construction achievements of the 20th century. Construction was started in 1932 and was completed in 1935. It has profoundly affected not only the residents of the area but visitors from all over the world. For some quick facts on the Hoover Dam click on the picture below.

Courtesy of United States Department of the Interior

We will be using some of these facts in our physical analysis of the dam.

Areas of Investigation

Physics - In this area we will be looking at the basic physics that is involved in the design and operation of dams in general focusing on the Hoover Dam as an example.

Environment -

Society -