Engineering & MachinesEngineering Design

Why Manholes Are Round

A round cover can never fall into its own hole

So many of the heavy iron lids in the street are round. Why would a circle beat a square for that job?

You'll find out

  • How a square lid falls into its hole
  • Why a round lid never can
  • The other shape that would work

Why it matters

The idea behind that shape turns up again in coins and drill bits. It all starts with a lid under your feet.

About 3 min6 interactive slides · 5 questionsLesson 113 · Zone 13

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