why does the best place for a reservoir have to be a river valley in an upland area with steep sided slopes to act as natural walls. Why cant is be flat?
A flat area requires too much area for a given volume. There will also be less pressure head, and as a result, less extractable power for a given volume. As the reservoir is drawn down, there will be large unsightly areas with no vegetation and a "bath tub ring".
so are you saying that a steep area would collect more water in a smaller area as there is more pressure?
The best place for a reservoir is typically a river valley in an upland area with steep-sided slopes because these natural features offer several advantages.
1. Water Availability: River valleys tend to have a consistent and reliable water source in the form of flowing rivers or streams. This ensures a steady supply of water for the reservoir.
2. Catchment Area: Upland areas often have large catchment areas, meaning they receive significant rainfall and have numerous tributaries that contribute to the river's flow. This results in a higher amount of water available for storage in the reservoir.
3. Natural Walls: Steep-sided slopes act as natural walls surrounding the reservoir. These slopes reduce the need for extensive man-made construction and can help contain the water within the reservoir more effectively. The natural landscape provides stability and reduces the risk of breaches or leaks.
4. Dam Construction: The steep slopes provide a suitable location to build a dam, which is essential for creating a reservoir. The dam can help control the flow of water, regulate water levels, and generate hydroelectric power if designed for that purpose.
Flat areas, on the other hand, have certain limitations when it comes to reservoir placement:
1. Water Availability: Flat areas may not have a consistent water source like a river, making it difficult to maintain sufficient water levels in the reservoir.
2. Catchment Area: Without the natural advantages of an upland area, flat regions may have a smaller catchment area, resulting in less water available for storage.
3. Containment Challenges: Flat terrains require more extensive construction, including building large embankments or artificial walls to contain the water effectively. This can be costly and time-consuming.
While reservoirs can be constructed in flat areas, they often require significant engineering efforts and might not have the same benefits as those situated in river valleys with upland characteristics.