Question Statement:
In a zoned earthen embankment dam, the central impervious core is constructed primarily from cohesive clay, flanked by outer pervious shells of sand and gravel. The primary function of the outer pervious shells is to:
Options:
- (A) Provide structural geotechnical stability and facilitate rapid dissipation of pore water pressures
- (B) Completely prevent any water from reaching the upstream face of the core
- (C) Eliminate the need for an emergency spillway
- (D) Prevent chemical hydration of the reservoir water