Ohio River Quiz
Formation, tributaries, states bordered, industrial corridor, flood history (10 questions).
Ohio River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Ohio River, a major tributary of the Mississippi River, plays a pivotal role in the history, economy, and geography of the eastern United States. Spanning over 981 miles, it influences numerous states, supports diverse industries, and has a rich natural and human history. This section provides a quick overview of key facts about this iconic waterway.
Key Aspects of the Ohio River:
Begins at Pittsburgh, PA, from the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers.
Significant inputs from the Tennessee, Wabash, Kanawha, and Cumberland Rivers.
Flows along/through Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois.
Historically vital for transportation, coal, steel, and a major industrial corridor.
Key Takeaways
- Length: Approximately 981 miles (1,579 km), making it the largest tributary of the Mississippi River by volume.
- Source: Formed at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, by the convergence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers.
- Mouth: Joins the Mississippi River at Cairo, Illinois.
- Bordered States: Its banks touch Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois. Notably, Kentucky’s northern border is defined by the river.
- Historical Significance: Served as a crucial transportation artery for pioneers heading west and for trade during the industrial revolution.
- Economic Role: A vital industrial corridor, historically supporting coal, steel, and chemical industries, and generating hydroelectric power.
- Flood Control: Managed by an extensive system of locks and dams, which aid navigation and mitigate flooding risks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where does the Ohio River start and end?
The Ohio River officially begins at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and flows southwest to merge with the Mississippi River at Cairo, Illinois.
What are the major tributaries of the Ohio River?
Key tributaries include the Tennessee River, Wabash River, Kanawha River, Cumberland River, and the Green River, among many others that contribute to its vast watershed.
Which states does the Ohio River flow through or border?
The Ohio River borders or flows through six U.S. states: Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois. Kentucky claims the river along its entire northern boundary.
Why is the Ohio River important for industry?
Historically, the Ohio River served as a vital transportation artery for raw materials like coal and finished goods, fostering the growth of the steel and manufacturing industries along its banks. Today, it remains important for chemical production, power generation, and commercial navigation.
Has the Ohio River experienced major floods?
Yes, the Ohio River has a notable history of major floods, with the “Great Flood of 1937” being one of the most severe events. In response, extensive flood control measures, including numerous dams, locks, and levees, have been implemented along its course.
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