Big Black River Quiz
Mississippi basin, tributaries, flood risk (10 questions).
Big Black River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Mississippi River, often called the ‘Father of Waters,’ is North America’s largest river system, draining a vast basin that spans over 31 states and two Canadian provinces. Understanding its extensive network of tributaries and the ever-present challenge of flood risk is crucial for comprehending the geography and history of the central United States.
Key Concepts
Covers over 1.2 million sq miles, draining 31 U.S. states and parts of two Canadian provinces.
Includes the Missouri River (longest) and the Ohio River (largest by water volume).
Historically prone to devastating floods (e.g., 1927, 1993) due to vast drainage and seasonal rainfall.
Managed by extensive levee systems, dams, reservoirs, and diversion projects like the Old River Control Structure.
Key Takeaways
- The Mississippi River Basin is the largest in North America, profoundly influencing the continent’s geography and economy.
- Its two most significant tributaries are the Missouri River (longest) and the Ohio River (most voluminous).
- The river’s extensive floodplain is highly fertile but naturally susceptible to inundation.
- Major historical floods, such as the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, led to substantial federal investment in flood control infrastructure.
- Levees, dams, and control structures like the Old River Control Structure are critical for managing water flow and preventing catastrophic flooding.
- The river continuously reshapes its landscape through sediment transport and delta formation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large is the Mississippi River Basin?
The Mississippi River Basin covers over 1.2 million square miles, draining all or part of 31 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces.
What are the two most significant tributaries of the Mississippi River?
The Missouri River is the longest tributary, and the Ohio River contributes the largest volume of water to the Mississippi.
Why is the Mississippi River prone to flooding?
Its vast basin collects water from a huge area, and heavy rainfall events, especially in the spring, can quickly overwhelm its capacity, leading to widespread flooding of its low-lying floodplains.
What was the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927?
It was the most destructive river flood in U.S. history, causing massive damage and displacement, and leading to significant changes in federal flood control policies and infrastructure.
What is the purpose of the Old River Control Structure?
Located in Louisiana, it prevents the Mississippi River from changing its main course into the Atchafalaya River, ensuring continued flow through the existing lower Mississippi and New Orleans.
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