Major Rivers of the United States Quiz
Mississippi, Missouri, Colorado, Columbia, Rio Grande (10 questions).
Major Rivers of the United States Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The United States is home to an extensive network of waterways that define its geography, borders, and history. This quiz challenges your knowledge of the five most significant rivers: the Mississippi, Missouri, Colorado, Columbia, and Rio Grande.
Key Takeaways
- The Missouri River is longer than the Mississippi River, though the Mississippi has a larger volume.
- The Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest is a major source of hydroelectric power.
- The Mississippi River begins at Lake Itasca in Minnesota.
- The Colorado River flows into the Gulf of California (though often dries up before reaching the sea).
- The Rio Grande flows into the Gulf of Mexico.
Which is longer: the Missouri or the Mississippi?
The Missouri River is technically the longest river in the United States, slightly edging out the Mississippi River in total length.
Where does the Mississippi River end?
The Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico south of New Orleans, Louisiana.
What river runs through the Grand Canyon?
The Colorado River runs through the Grand Canyon, having carved it over millions of years.
Where does the Columbia River flow?
The Columbia River flows from British Columbia, Canada, through Washington state, and forms the border between Washington and Oregon before reaching the Pacific Ocean.
What two countries are separated by the Rio Grande?
The Rio Grande forms the natural border between the United States (Texas) and Mexico.
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