How many major tributaries does the Mississippi River have, and why does that matter?
Quick Answer
The Mississippi has many major tributaries, with the Missouri and Ohio among the biggest. Its tributary network drains a huge part of North America and helps make the river system one of the world’s largest.
The Full Story
The Mississippi River system includes numerous tributaries, but two of the most important are the Missouri River and the Ohio River. Together with many smaller branches, they drain much of the central United States. This vast network carries water, sediment, nutrients, and pollutants across a giant basin. Because the system is so large, changes upstream can affect flooding, navigation, and water quality far downstream.
Key Facts
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"The giant river system behind America’s heartland"
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