What are Dams?
Dams are also called dykes or levees. They are large structures built on flowing water like streams and rivers to stop water flow. The advantages of dams are conserving water and generating electricity. The barriers constructed on the flowing water system create a large reservoir upstream. This stored water in the reservoir can be used for long-term purposes like domestic applications and industrial purposes.
Dams can be built from different materials. Ancient dam builders used natural materials such as rocks or clay. Modern-day dam builders often use concrete. Dams control floods and save thousands of lives. However, there are some disadvantages of dams as well as it can cause a lot of environmental damage. Dams can block the natural flow of water, which can disrupt the ecosystem.
Also Read: What are Environment and Ecosystem?
Overview on Dams
The advantage of dams lies in their ability to regulate water flow, prevent floods, and store water, thus ensuring a stable water supply for human needs and economic activities. The dams are large barrier-like constructions built on flowing water systems like rivers and streams. The main benefit of dam construction is water storage. When the water level upstream exceeds the dam capacity, floodgates will be opened slightly. This will help in a controlled flow. In this article, we will read about dams, the advantages of dams, their importance for human benefits, and their disadvantages.
Table of Content
- What are Dams?
- Types of Dams
- Uses of Dams
- Importance of Dams for Human Benefits
- Advantages of Dams
- Disadvantages of Dams
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