Drainage Patterns/Stream Types Flashcards

In areas where there are numerous flaws

Answer: Rectangular Drainage Pattern

A rectangular drainage pattern develops in areas where the underlying bedrock is fractured or faulted, creating a grid-like network of weaknesses. Streams follow these paths of least resistance, resulting in sharp, angular bends in their courses. This pattern is indicative of strong structural control over the drainage.

a drainage pattern that may form on uniform rock and has a shape matching the pattern created by tree branches or leaf veins

Answer: Dendritic Pattern

A dendritic drainage pattern is characterized by a tree-like branching network of streams, resembling the veins of a leaf. This pattern typically forms on uniformly resistant rock where there is no structural control over the drainage direction. It is the most common type of drainage pattern found in nature.

"Mount in the center The streams radiate from a central high point in a radial drainage system. Typically, volcanoes have excellent radial drainage. Domes and laccoliths are additional geological structures on which radial drainage frequently occurs. The drainage on these objects may display a variety of radial patterns."

Answer: Radial Drainage Pattern

A radial drainage pattern is characterized by streams flowing outwards in all directions from a central elevated point, such as a volcano, dome, or laccolith. This pattern is formed as water drains away from a topographic high. It is a distinctive pattern often associated with conical landforms.

a stream that only occasionally flows in the area during and after a time of rainfall

Answer: Ephemeral Stream

An ephemeral stream is one that flows only occasionally, specifically during and immediately after periods of rainfall or snowmelt. Its channel is typically above the water table and remains dry for most of the year. These streams are common in arid and semi-arid regions.

continuous flow of water

Answer: Perennial Stream

A perennial stream is characterized by a continuous flow of water throughout the entire year, even during dry seasons. Its channel is typically at or below the water table, sustained by groundwater discharge. These streams are a reliable source of water and are common in humid climates.

"In general, tributary streams follow the slope of the surface by spreading out in a parallel-like pattern. Sometimes the presence of a significant fault cutting across a region of sharply folded bedrock is indicated by a parallel pattern. shallow basin"

Answer: Parallel Drainage Pattern

The question describes tributary streams following the surface slope in a 'parallel-like pattern' and mentions this pattern can indicate a significant fault in folded bedrock. This description directly defines a Parallel Drainage Pattern. In this pattern, streams flow in sub-parallel courses, often controlled by underlying geological structures like faults or steeply dipping strata.

"a region of land where surface water will eventually converge to one location The greatest significant restriction on drainage patterns is topography."

Answer: Drainage Patterns

The question describes a 'region of land where surface water will eventually converge to one location,' which is the definition of a drainage basin or watershed. It then states that 'topography' is the greatest restriction on 'drainage patterns.' Therefore, the term 'Drainage Patterns' best encompasses how water flows across a landscape and is influenced by topography.