United States River Basins Quiz

United States River Basins Quiz

Drainage systems, watersheds (10 questions).

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United States River Basins Quiz: Quick Study Notes

River basins define the geography of the United States, dictating agriculture, transportation routes, and state borders. This quiz tests your knowledge of the major drainage systems, from the Continental Divide to the Gulf of Mexico.

Mississippi BasinThe largest basin, draining ~40% of the contiguous US into the Gulf of Mexico.
Great DivideThe mountain ridge separating waters flowing Pacific vs. Atlantic/Arctic.
Great BasinAn endorheic region (mostly Nevada) where water evaporates or sinks, never reaching the ocean.
Columbia RiverThe dominant river system of the Pacific Northwest, famous for hydroelectric power.

Key Takeaways

  • The Mississippi-Missouri system is the fourth longest in the world.
  • The Rio Grande forms a natural political boundary between the US and Mexico.
  • The Colorado River supplies crucial water to the arid Southwest.
  • Triple Divide Peak in Montana sends water to three different oceans.
  • The Saint Lawrence River is the outlet for the Great Lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest watershed in the US?

The Mississippi River Basin is the largest, covering over 1.2 million square miles.

What does the Continental Divide do?

It is the hydrological divide that separates water flowing toward the Pacific Ocean from water flowing toward the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans.

Does the Great Basin drain into the ocean?

No. It is an endorheic basin, meaning its waters drain internally into lakes or evaporate.

Which river flows through the Grand Canyon?

The Colorado River flows through the Grand Canyon before reaching the Gulf of California.

Where does the Great Lakes water go?

The Great Lakes drain into the Atlantic Ocean via the Saint Lawrence River.

GeoQuizzy.com • United States River Basins Quiz

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