Question

Dams have very broad base. Explain.

Answer 1

1. Pressure exerted on a given surface depends upon the following factors:

1. Pressure is directly proportional to the force applied on a surface.
2. Pressure is inversely proportional to the area of cross-section of a surface.

2. Hence, the foundation of big dams has a very broad base to reduce the pressure on the ground due to its extremely heavy super structure.

3. This in turn prevents the sinking of the dam.