Most rivers run peacefully. They meet few obstacles. Sometimes they come to steep slopes which they have to pass over. The water thus falls rapidly to the bottom... and a waterfall is created.
When the drop is not significant, the waterfall is called a cascade, and rapids if the difference in height is slight. Waterfalls are spectacular... and also very useful. The falling water turns and hydraulic wheel. With the addition of a dynamo, electricity can be produced. Such an installation is called a hydroelectric station (hydro=water).
In a river, difference in height is caused either by natural changes in terrain, or huge holes in the rock dug out by glaciers. The Niagara Falls, on the border between Canada and the United States, is very famous. Part of it is in the shape of a horseshoe. The power of the water is so great that in 300 years it has worn away 500 metres (1600 feet) of rock.
In Zambia, Africa, there are the Victoria Falls. In 1935, the Angel Falls were discovered in Venezuela. There are many beautiful falls all over the world. But these falls are also used for making electricity.
When the drop is not significant, the waterfall is called a cascade, and rapids if the difference in height is slight. Waterfalls are spectacular... and also very useful. The falling water turns and hydraulic wheel. With the addition of a dynamo, electricity can be produced. Such an installation is called a hydroelectric station (hydro=water).
In a river, difference in height is caused either by natural changes in terrain, or huge holes in the rock dug out by glaciers. The Niagara Falls, on the border between Canada and the United States, is very famous. Part of it is in the shape of a horseshoe. The power of the water is so great that in 300 years it has worn away 500 metres (1600 feet) of rock.
In Zambia, Africa, there are the Victoria Falls. In 1935, the Angel Falls were discovered in Venezuela. There are many beautiful falls all over the world. But these falls are also used for making electricity.
Post a Comment