3.2. Buttress Dams

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the main structural feature of a buttress dam?

   Hint

   Think of what supports the main surface of the dam.

2. 2.

   Name one advantage of buttress dams.

   Hint

   Consider the materials used in construction.

3. 3.

   What is a key feature of buttress dams?

   • Thick base
   • Sloping deck
   • Straight walls

   Hint

   Think of how the water is managed.

4. 4.

   Are buttress dams more economical than gravity dams?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the materials involved.

5. 5.

   Given a site with unstable soil, evaluate whether it would be more suitable to construct a buttress dam or a gravity dam.

   Hint

   Think about the characteristics of the foundation.

6. 6.

   Design a brief structure indicating the advantages of using a multiple-arch dam instead of a deck slab dam.

   Hint

   Consider weight distribution and cost factors.