Arkansas River Quiz
Headwaters, states crossed, tributaries, floodplain & navigation (10 questions).
Arkansas River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Arkansas River is a major tributary of the Mississippi River, flowing for nearly 1,469 miles (2,364 km) across four U.S. states. This quiz tests your knowledge of its origins, course, key features, and human interactions, from its Rocky Mountain headwaters to its navigable lower reaches.
Key River Features
Key Takeaways
- The Arkansas River is the sixth-longest river in the United States.
- It begins high in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
- It flows eastward through four states: Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
- The McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System is a significant engineering feat enabling commercial barge traffic to the Mississippi.
- Its floodplains, especially in Arkansas, are vital agricultural areas known for rice and soybean production.
- Notable cities along its banks include Pueblo, Wichita, Tulsa, and Little Rock.
- The river’s character changes drastically from a mountain stream to a wide, slow-moving lowland river.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Arkansas River
What is the source of the Arkansas River?
The Arkansas River originates in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado, specifically in the Sawatch Range near Leadville, at an elevation of approximately 14,000 feet (4,300 meters).
Which states does the Arkansas River flow through?
The Arkansas River flows through four U.S. states: Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
What is the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System?
It is a 445-mile (716 km) system of locks, dams, and canals that allows commercial barge traffic to navigate the Arkansas River from the Mississippi River up to Catoosa (near Tulsa), Oklahoma.
Are there major cities located along the Arkansas River?
Yes, several significant cities are situated along the Arkansas River, including Pueblo (Colorado), Wichita (Kansas), Tulsa (Oklahoma), and Little Rock (Arkansas).
What kind of agriculture is supported by the Arkansas River’s floodplain?
The fertile floodplain of the lower Arkansas River, particularly in Arkansas, is known for extensive agricultural production, including rice, soybeans, and cotton.
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