Columbia River System Quiz
Watershed, hydropower, Pacific Northwest (10 questions).
Columbia River System Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Columbia River is the lifeblood of the Pacific Northwest, flowing 1,243 miles from the Canadian Rockies to the Pacific Ocean. Renowned for its massive hydroelectric capacity and the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, it defines the geography and economy of the region.
Key Takeaways
- Forms the majority of the border between Washington and Oregon.
- Largest river in the Pacific Northwest region.
- Historically vital for Chinook, Coho, and Steelhead salmon migration.
- The Gorge was dramatically shaped by the ancient Missoula Floods.
- The watershed covers parts of seven U.S. states and one Canadian province.
- Produces approximately one-third of the total potential hydropower in the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Columbia River?
The river flows for approximately 1,243 miles (2,000 km) from the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia to the Pacific Ocean.
Where does the Columbia River start and end?
It begins at Columbia Lake in British Columbia, Canada, and ends at the Pacific Ocean on the border between Washington and Oregon.
Why is the Columbia River important for energy?
Its steep gradient and high volume make it ideal for hydroelectricity; the river system generates more power than any other North American river.
What is the Columbia River Gorge?
It is a deep canyon cutting through the Cascade Mountain Range, designated as a National Scenic Area, known for waterfalls and windsurfing.
Which states are in the Columbia River watershed?
The basin covers vast parts of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, with smaller portions in Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada.
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