gravity dam
Its huge mass resists the thrust of the water to prevent it from overturning or sliding; this type of dam is usually used to hold back large volumes of water.
cut-off trench
Watertight structure that extends the foundations of the dam into the ground; it limits leakage and infiltration under the dam.
reservoir
Basin formed by the construction of a dam; it holds back a very large volume of water so that the flow rate can be controlled.
afterbay
Area of the watercourse where water is discharged after passing through the turbines.
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