Answer: embankment dam is a large artificial dam. It is typically created by the placement and compaction of a complex semi-plastic mound of various compositions of soil
arch dam: purpose is to provide electric power to a neighboring city and to prevent flooding. can last up to 10 years. typically built in narrow canyons.
embankment dam: most common. often used to hold back mining waste. can last about 30 years. engineered to rely on their weight to resist the water pressure.
gravity dam: engineered to hold back a large amount of water, forming a reservoir. can last up to 150 years. uses gravity to hold the dam to the ground and to stop the water from spilling over.
buttress dam: designed to provide electric power to a rural area. can last up to 50 years. transmits the water pressure from the slab to the dam’s foundation.
