How do pumps keep underground spaces dry?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do pumps keep underground spaces dry?

The Big Idea

Water is always seeping into the ground. Mines and tunnels would flood without help! So workers pump the water out.

Seeping Water

Step one: Seeping Water. Water seeps through the rock and soil into mines and tunnels. If it was not removed, the spaces would flood.

Sumps

Step two: Sumps. Workers dig small basins called sumps at low points. The water flows down and collects there.

Pumps

Step three: Pumps. Powerful pumps send the water up pipes to the surface. Builders also seal cracks and sometimes pump water out of the ground before digging.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Water seeps in. It collects in a sump. A pump pushes it. Pipes carry it up.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Some mines pump out more water than rock each day. Mine pumps run day and night. Sealing cracks helps keep water out. When pumps stop, old mines can fill with water.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Place a sponge in a pan of water. Use a turkey baster to suck up water. Squeeze it into a cup, like a pump. How long does it take to empty the pan? Clean up any spills.

Outro

Pumps keep underground spaces dry by sending water that collects in low basins, called sumps, up pipes to the surface. Builders also seal cracks to keep water out. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!