All questions of Drainage for Class 9 Exam

The Guru Gobind Sagar Lake differs from the rest of the lakes in the group.

Reasons:

Location:
- The Guru Gobind Sagar Lake is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, while the other lakes are located in Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir.

Origin:
- The Guru Gobind Sagar Lake is a man-made reservoir, created by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River. In contrast, the other lakes are natural or semi-natural.

Purpose:
- The Guru Gobind Sagar Lake was created primarily for hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and drinking water supply. The other lakes do not have such a specific purpose.

Size:
- The Guru Gobind Sagar Lake is much larger than the other lakes, with a surface area of about 170 square kilometers. In comparison, Dal Lake has a surface area of about 18 square kilometers, Nainital Lake has a surface area of about 1.5 square kilometers, and Bhimtal Lake has a surface area of about 1.2 square kilometers.

Tourism:
- While the other lakes are popular tourist destinations, the Guru Gobind Sagar Lake is not as well-known as a tourist spot. It is mainly visited by people interested in water sports and fishing.

In conclusion, the Guru Gobind Sagar Lake differs from the rest of the lakes in the group due to its location, origin, purpose, size, and popularity as a tourist destination.

Most of the peninsular rivers extend from talab, garna etc. when it is too much heat, the water get drained but in monsoon it fills again unlike ganga type rivers which extend from mountain. that is why the peninsular rivers are seasonal.

Length of River Ganga Drainage Basin

The total length of River Ganga drainage basin is 2500 km.

Explanation

The River Ganga is one of the largest rivers in India and has a significant impact on the country's culture, economy, and environment. The river flows through several states in northern India, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The Ganga basin is also one of the most densely populated regions in the world.

The River Ganga drainage basin is the area of land drained by the river and its tributaries. The length of the drainage basin is measured from the source of the river in the Himalayas to the point where it meets the Bay of Bengal. The total length of the River Ganga drainage basin is approximately 2,500 km.

The River Ganga is considered holy by Hindus and is a significant pilgrimage site. It is also an essential source of water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use. However, the river is facing several challenges, including pollution, climate change, and overuse. The Indian government has launched several initiatives to clean up the river and prevent further degradation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the total length of the River Ganga drainage basin is 2,500 km. The river is an essential resource for India and its people, but it is also facing significant challenges. It is crucial to take steps to protect and preserve the river for future generations.

**The source of the river Narmada is Amarkantak.**

The river Narmada, one of the major rivers in India, originates from the Amarkantak plateau. It is located in the Maikal Mountains, which is part of the Vindhya Range. Amarkantak is a pilgrimage town situated at an altitude of around 1065 meters in the Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh.

**Amarkantak**:
- Amarkantak is considered a sacred place by Hindus as it is believed to be the meeting point of the Vindhya Range and the Satpura Range, which are two important mountain ranges in central India.
- It is believed that the Narmada River emerges as a result of the union of two small streams, namely, the Sonbhadra and the Johila, at the origin point in Amarkantak.
- The Sonbhadra stream originates from the east while the Johila stream originates from the west. They converge at the Amarkantak plateau to form the Narmada River.

**Vindhya Range**:
- The Vindhya Range is a range of hills and mountains that runs parallel to the Narmada River in central India.
- It extends from eastern Gujarat through Madhya Pradesh and into southeastern Uttar Pradesh.
- The Vindhya Range acts as a watershed between the rivers flowing into the Arabian Sea and those flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
- It is a prominent feature in the landscape of central India and is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.

**Satpura Range**:
- The Satpura Range is another important mountain range in central India.
- It runs parallel to the Vindhya Range and forms the southern boundary of the Narmada River basin.
- The Satpura Range is known for its dense forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and hill stations.
- Several rivers, including the Tapti and the Narmada, originate from this range.

In conclusion, the river Narmada has its source at Amarkantak, which is located in the Maikal Mountains of the Vindhya Range. The belief that the Narmada River is formed by the union of the Sonbhadra and Johila streams at Amarkantak makes it a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.

The correct answer is option 'B', Brahmaputra.

The Dibang and Lohit rivers are two major tributaries of the Brahmaputra River in India. They are both located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, which is in the northeastern part of India. Let's explore more about these rivers and their significance.

1. The Brahmaputra River:
- The Brahmaputra is one of the major rivers in Asia and is known as the lifeline of northeastern India.
- It originates from the Angsi Glacier in the Himalayas and flows through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh.
- In India, it enters through the state of Arunachal Pradesh and flows through Assam before entering Bangladesh and eventually merging with the Ganges River.
- The Brahmaputra River is known for its massive volume of water and plays a crucial role in the region's economy and transportation.

2. The Dibang River:
- The Dibang River is the largest tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
- It originates from the northern slopes of the Great Himalayas in Arunachal Pradesh.
- The river flows through the Dibang Valley and eventually joins the Brahmaputra near the town of Sadiya in Assam.
- The Dibang River is known for its scenic beauty and is surrounded by dense forests and snow-clad mountains.

3. The Lohit River:
- The Lohit River is another important tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
- It originates in eastern Tibet and enters India through Arunachal Pradesh.
- The river flows through the Mishmi Hills and joins the Brahmaputra near the town of Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh.
- The Lohit River is known for its turbulent waters and is a popular destination for rafting and adventure sports.

4. Significance:
- The Dibang and Lohit rivers, along with other tributaries, contribute significantly to the water flow of the Brahmaputra River.
- These rivers play a vital role in the irrigation, agriculture, and fisheries of the region.
- The Brahmaputra River and its tributaries are also a source of transportation and are used for both commercial and leisure purposes.
- The rivers and their surrounding areas are ecologically diverse, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna.

In conclusion, the Dibang and Lohit rivers are important tributaries of the Brahmaputra River. They originate in Arunachal Pradesh and contribute to the overall water flow and ecological significance of the region.

About the River Narmada

The River Narmada is one of the most important rivers in India. It rises in the Amarkantak hills in Madhya Pradesh and flows westward for nearly 1,300 km before it empties into the Arabian Sea.

Incorrect Statement

d) Its tributaries are the Tungabhadra and Musi

Explanation

The statement that the tributaries of the River Narmada are the Tungabhadra and Musi is incorrect. The correct tributaries of the River Narmada are:

- The Banjar River
- The Sher River
- The Hiran River
- The Tawa River
- The Ganjal River
- The Kaveri River
- The Burhner River
- The Shakkar River
- The Dudhi River

Therefore, option D is the correct answer to this question.

The Wular Lake is in Jammu and Kashmir

The Wular Lake, also known as Wular Lake, is located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is the largest freshwater lake in the region and one of the largest in Asia. Here are some details about the lake and its significance:

Location:
- The Wular Lake is situated in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It lies approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir.

Description:
- Wular Lake is spread over an area of about 189 square kilometers.
- It is a natural lake formed by the action of the Jhelum River.
- The lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a picturesque location.
- It is fed by several streams and rivers, including the Jhelum River, which flows through it.
- The lake is known for its deep blue waters and lush green surroundings.

Importance:
- The Wular Lake is of great ecological significance as it serves as a habitat for a variety of flora and fauna.
- It supports a rich biodiversity and is home to numerous species of birds, fish, and aquatic plants.
- The lake is a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, as it attracts a large number of migratory birds during the winter season.
- It also plays a crucial role in regulating the water flow of the Jhelum River and acts as a natural flood control mechanism.

Human Interaction:
- The lake is an important source of livelihood for the local communities living in the region.
- Fishing is a major economic activity, with fishermen relying on the lake for their sustenance.
- The lake also provides irrigation water for agricultural purposes in the surrounding areas.
- However, human activities such as pollution and encroachment have posed significant threats to the lake's ecosystem.

In conclusion, the Wular Lake is located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is a significant freshwater lake known for its ecological importance, scenic beauty, and role in supporting local communities.

Saltwater Lake of Rajasthan: Sambhar

Sambhar is the largest saltwater lake in India, located in the state of Rajasthan. It is a part of the Sambhar Lake Town, which is situated around 80 km southwest of Jaipur. The lake is spread over an area of 190 to 230 square kilometers, depending on the water level.

Formation of Sambhar Lake
Sambhar Lake was formed approximately 5,000 years ago when a river named 'Saraswati' changed its course due to tectonic activities. The lake is fed by several small streams and rivers, but it has no outlet. The water in the lake evaporates, leaving behind a high concentration of salt, which is harvested by locals.

Ecology and Wildlife
Sambhar Lake is a significant wetland ecosystem of Rajasthan and is a critical habitat for many migratory birds. It is listed as a Ramsar site, which is a wetland of international importance. The lake is home to a wide variety of birds such as flamingoes, pelicans, storks, and several species of ducks. The lake is also an essential feeding and breeding ground for many resident birds such as Indian cormorants, spoonbills, and painted storks.

Tourism
Sambhar Lake is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan. The lake is surrounded by hills, and the view of the sunset from the lake is breathtaking. Several resorts and hotels are situated around the lake, which offers a comfortable stay to tourists. The lake is also an excellent spot for bird watching, and many tourists visit the lake to witness the migratory birds during winter.

Conclusion
Sambhar Lake is a unique ecosystem of Rajasthan and has significant ecological and economic importance. It is a must-visit destination for tourists who are interested in bird watching and wish to experience the beauty of nature.

Definition of Drainage
Drainage refers to the network of rivers, streams, and other water bodies that collect and carry water from a particular area.

Description of the Term Drainage
Option 'B' is the correct answer. It describes the river system of an area. Drainage refers to the collection and transportation of water from a particular area through a network of rivers, streams, and other water bodies. It includes the surface runoff, precipitation, and groundwater. The river system is an integral part of the drainage system as it collects and carries water from the upper areas to the lower areas. The river system comprises of the main river, its tributaries, and distributaries. It is responsible for the formation of river valleys, waterfalls, and gorges, and plays a significant role in shaping the landscape of an area.

Option 'A' is incorrect because it refers to the area drained by a single river system. Drainage is not limited to a single river system, but it includes all the water bodies that collect and carry water from a particular area.

Option 'C' is incorrect because it refers to an upland that separates two drainage basins. Although an upland can separate two drainage basins, it is not the definition of drainage.

Option 'D' is incorrect because one of the options is the correct description of the term drainage.

Kolleru Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India located in the state of Andhra Pradesh and forms the largest shallow freshwater[ lake in Asia, 15 kilometers away from the city of Eluru. Kolleru is located between Krishna and Godavari deltas. Kolleru spans into two districts - Krishna and West Godavari. The lake is fed directly by water from the seasonal Budameru and Tammileru streams and is connected to the Krishna and Godavari irrigation systems by over 67 major and minor irrigation canals. This lake is a major tourist attraction.

Amravati is a tributary of Kaveri.So answer is C

Chilika Lake is a brackish water lagoon, spread over the Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha state on the east coast of India, at the mouth of the Daya River, flowing into the Bay of Bengal, covering an area of over 1,100 km.

Option a is correct because in the earth most of the water is present in oceans and in water in oceans is salty .

Length of the Ganga:
The length of the Ganga river is 2,500 kilometers.
Explanation:
- The Ganga, also known as the Ganges, is a major river in South Asia that flows through India and Bangladesh.
- It is one of the longest rivers in the world, with a total length of approximately 2,500 kilometers.
- The river originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the state of Uttarakhand in India and flows through the northern states of India, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal.
- After crossing into Bangladesh, it eventually merges with the Brahmaputra River and empties into the Bay of Bengal.
- The Ganga is considered sacred by Hindus and is worshipped as the goddess Ganga.
- It is also an important water source for millions of people living along its banks, supporting agriculture, industry, and providing drinking water.
- The river is highly polluted due to various human activities, and efforts are being made to clean and conserve its waters.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: 2500 km.

Indus River originates near Manasarovar Lake from Mount Kailash of China. It flows through Leh in India and later through Pakistan before emptying into the Arabian Sea. Its major tributaries are divided into 2 groups. Panjnad includes the famous Ravi, Chenab, Jhelum, Beas and Sutlej.

Answer:

Introduction:
In this question, we are asked to identify which one of the following lakes is a saltwater lake. The options given are Wular Lake, Sambhar Lake, Barapani Lake, and Dal Lake. To answer this question, we need to understand the characteristics of each lake and determine which one fits the criteria of being a saltwater lake.

Explanation:
To identify the saltwater lake among the given options, let's analyze each lake and its characteristics:

1. Wular Lake:
Wular Lake is located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is the largest freshwater lake in India and is surrounded by mountains. As the question specifically asks for a saltwater lake, Wular Lake does not fit this criterion.

2. Sambhar Lake:
Sambhar Lake is located in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is the largest inland saltwater lake in India. The lake is known for its high salt concentration and is a major source of salt production in the region. Therefore, Sambhar Lake fits the criteria of being a saltwater lake.

3. Barapani Lake:
Barapani Lake, also known as Umiam Lake, is located in Meghalaya, India. It is a man-made reservoir and is primarily a freshwater lake. It is used for various recreational activities and water sports. Hence, Barapani Lake is not a saltwater lake.

4. Dal Lake:
Dal Lake is situated in Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir, India. It is a famous tourist attraction and is known for its scenic beauty. Dal Lake is a freshwater lake and does not meet the criteria of being a saltwater lake.

Conclusion:
Out of the given options, Sambhar Lake is the only saltwater lake. It is the largest inland saltwater lake in India and is located in Rajasthan. The other options, Wular Lake, Barapani Lake, and Dal Lake, are all freshwater lakes.

River Mahanadi
The river Mahanadi rises in the highlands of Chhattisgarh. It is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the states of Chhattisgarh and Odisha. Let's explore more about the river Mahanadi:

Source of River Mahanadi:
- The Mahanadi river originates from the Sihawa hills in the Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh.
- These hills are a part of the Maikal Range, which is located in the eastern part of the Satpura Mountain Range.

Course of River Mahanadi:
- After its origin, the Mahanadi flows in a north-easterly direction through the state of Chhattisgarh.
- It then enters Odisha and continues its journey towards the Bay of Bengal.
- The river forms the boundary between Chhattisgarh and Odisha for a significant part of its course.
- It passes through important cities like Sambalpur, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar.

Tributaries of River Mahanadi:
- The Mahanadi river has numerous tributaries that join it along its course.
- Some of the major tributaries include the Seonath, Hasdeo, Jonk, and Ib rivers.
- These tributaries contribute to the overall flow of the Mahanadi and add to its significance as a water resource.

Importance of River Mahanadi:
- The Mahanadi river is of great importance for both Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
- It plays a vital role in irrigation and agriculture in the region, providing water for irrigation to a large number of farmers.
- The river also serves as a source of hydroelectric power generation with several dams built along its course.
- Additionally, it supports various industries, including steel plants, paper mills, and thermal power plants.

In conclusion, the river Mahanadi rises in the highlands of Chhattisgarh and flows through both Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It is an important river in the region, serving as a lifeline for agriculture, power generation, and industrial activities.

An oxbow lake forms when a river creates a meander, due to the river's eroding the bank. After a long period of time, the meander becomes very curved, and eventually the neck of the meander becomes narrower and the river cuts through the neck during a flood, cutting off the meander and forming an oxbow lake.

Brahmaputra River has a Braided Channel

The Brahmaputra River is a trans-boundary river that flows through China, India, and Bangladesh. It is one of the largest and most important river systems in Asia, and it has a braided channel.

What is a Braided Channel?

A braided channel is a type of river channel that is characterized by multiple channels separated by islands or bars of sediment. These channels often shift and change over time, creating a complex network of waterways that can be difficult to navigate.

Why does the Brahmaputra River have a Braided Channel?

The Brahmaputra River has a braided channel because of its high sediment load and varying flow conditions. During the monsoon season, the river receives a large amount of water and sediment, which causes the river to shift and change its course. This creates multiple channels that weave in and out of each other, creating a braided appearance.

Impact of Braided Channel on the Environment

Braided channels can have a significant impact on the environment. They create a variety of habitats that support a diverse range of plant and animal species. However, they can also be susceptible to erosion and flooding, which can cause damage to nearby communities and infrastructure.

Conclusion

In summary, the Brahmaputra River has a braided channel due to its high sediment load and varying flow conditions. While this creates a unique environment that supports a range of species, it can also be a challenge for nearby communities and infrastructure.

The Ganga River System
The Ganga River System is one of the most significant river systems in India, known for its vast network of rivers, tributaries, and distributaries.
Formation of Bhagirathi-Hooghly Distributary
- The Ganga River flows through several states in India and ultimately drains into the Bay of Bengal.
- Near the town of Farakka in West Bengal, the Ganga divides into multiple branches, one of which is the Bhagirathi-Hooghly.
- The Bhagirathi-Hooghly is a crucial distributary that serves as the main channel of the Ganga in its lower reaches, providing water to a significant portion of West Bengal.
Importance of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly
- Cultural Significance: The river is revered in Hindu culture and is considered sacred. It plays an essential role in rituals and religious ceremonies.
- Economic Role: The Bhagirathi-Hooghly supports agriculture and fishing, contributing to the livelihoods of many communities along its banks.
- Navigation: This river serves as an important waterway for trade and transport, facilitating the movement of goods and people.
Conclusion
In summary, the Ganga River System is renowned for forming the Bhagirathi-Hooghly distributary, which is pivotal for both ecological balance and human activities in the region. Its significance extends beyond geography, impacting cultural, economic, and social aspects of life in West Bengal.

Dendritic drainage pattern resembles the branches of a tree. It is the most common and widely found pattern in nature. In this pattern, the river channels and tributaries resemble the branches of a tree, with the main river channel acting as the trunk and the smaller tributaries acting as the branches that merge into the main channel.

Explanation:
The dendritic drainage pattern develops in regions with a homogeneous rock structure and a relatively flat and uniform slope. It is formed when a river flows over a uniform and resistant bedrock or a layer of unconsolidated sediments. The river channels follow the paths of least resistance and erode the surrounding terrain in a dendritic pattern.

The formation of a dendritic pattern can be explained as follows:

1. Homogeneous rock structure: The underlying rock or soil in the area is uniform and does not have any major variations in its resistance to erosion. This allows the river to flow freely and not be diverted by any harder or softer rock formations.

2. Uniform slope: The area has a relatively flat and uniform slope, which means that the river does not encounter any significant changes in gradient. This smooth gradient allows the river to flow evenly and maintain a consistent direction.

3. Path of least resistance: The river follows the path of least resistance as it flows downhill. It erodes the surrounding terrain in a way that creates a network of branching channels. The erosion is concentrated along the weaker points in the landscape, such as joints or fractures in the rock.

4. Branching tributaries: As the river flows downstream, it is joined by smaller streams and tributaries. These tributaries form at right angles to the main channel and join it, creating a dendritic pattern resembling the branches of a tree.

The dendritic drainage pattern is efficient in draining water from an area because it allows for a large volume of water to be discharged into the main river channel. It is commonly found in regions with well-developed drainage systems, such as river valleys and floodplains.

Explanation:

The Mahanadi Basin:
The Mahanadi Basin is correctly matched with the description that it flows through Odisha to reach the Bay of Bengal. The Mahanadi River is one of the major rivers in India, originating in the highlands of Chhattisgarh and flowing through the states of Odisha before finally draining into the Bay of Bengal. The river basin is an important agricultural region, supporting irrigation and providing water for crops in the surrounding areas.

Incorrectly Matched Pairs:
a) The Godavari Basin - Rises from the highlands of Chhattisgarh
This statement is incorrect as the Godavari River actually rises from the Western Ghats in Maharashtra and flows eastwards across the Deccan Plateau before draining into the Bay of Bengal. It does not rise from the highlands of Chhattisgarh.
b) The Krishna Basin - Flows into the Arabian Sea
This statement is incorrect as the Krishna River flows eastwards and empties into the Bay of Bengal, not the Arabian Sea.
d) The Kaveri Basin - Forms the largest waterfall in India
This statement is incorrect as the Jog Falls, which is formed by the Sharavathi River, is the largest waterfall in India and not in the Kaveri Basin.
Therefore, the correctly matched pair is:
c) The Mahanadi Basin - Flows through Odisha to reach the Bay of Bengal

The Brahmaputra originates in the Mansarovar lake, also the source of the Indus and the Satluj. It is slightly longer than the Indus, but most of its course lies outside India. It flows eastward, parallel to the Himalayas. Reaching Namcha Barwa (7757 m), it takes a U-turn around it and enters India in Arunachal Pradesh and known as dihang. The undercutting done by this river is of the order of 5500 metres. In India, it flows through Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, and is joined by several tributaries.

Option B
Description

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is one of the world's largest and tallest Masonry dams built across the Krishna river .

Answer:
The drainage basin of the Kaveri river covers parts of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Here is a detailed explanation:
Kaveri River
- The Kaveri river, also known as the Cauvery river, is one of the major rivers in India.
- It originates from the Talakaveri in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
- The river flows through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
- The total length of the Kaveri river is approximately 800 kilometers.
Drainage Basin
- A drainage basin is an area of land where all the water that falls in it drains into a particular river system.
- It includes all the tributaries, streams, and rivers that contribute to the main river.
- The Kaveri river has a large drainage basin that covers parts of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
- In Karnataka, the river basin covers regions such as Coorg, Mysore, and Mandya.
- In Kerala, the river basin covers parts of Wayanad and Palakkad districts.
- In Tamil Nadu, the river basin covers regions such as Erode, Tiruchirappalli, and Thanjavur.
Other Options
- The Godavari river, option A, has its drainage basin in the states of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
- The Krishna river, option B, has its drainage basin in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
- The Musi river, option D, has its drainage basin in the state of Telangana.
Therefore, the correct answer is option C: Kaveri.

The System of Flowing Water from Higher Level to Lower Level

What is the System of Flowing Water from Higher Level to Lower Level?

The system of flowing water from the higher level to the lower level is called drainage. It refers to the process by which water moves through the land, from higher elevations to lower elevations, and ultimately to a body of water such as a river or ocean.

How does the System of Flowing Water from Higher Level to Lower Level work?

The system of flowing water from the higher level to the lower level works through the following processes:

1. Precipitation: Water falls from the sky in the form of rain, snow, or hail.

2. Infiltration: Some of the water seeps into the ground and becomes groundwater.

3. Runoff: The rest of the water flows over the surface of the ground, forming streams and rivers.

4. Drainage Basins: The land area that contributes water to a river system is called a drainage basin.

5. Tributaries: Smaller streams or rivers that flow into a larger river are called tributaries.

6. Watershed: The boundary that separates one drainage basin from another is called a watershed.

7. River Systems: The network of tributaries and main rivers that drain an area is called a river system.

What are the importance and uses of the System of Flowing Water from Higher Level to Lower Level?

The system of flowing water from the higher level to the lower level is essential for the survival of plants and animals. It also has the following uses:

1. Irrigation: Water from rivers and streams is used for irrigation of crops.

2. Hydroelectricity: Water is used to generate electricity through hydroelectric power plants.

3. Navigation: Rivers and streams are used for transportation of goods and people.

4. Recreation: Rivers and streams are used for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.

In conclusion, the system of flowing water from the higher level to the lower level, also known as drainage, is an essential process for the survival of plants and animals. It is also crucial for human activities such as irrigation, hydroelectricity, navigation, and recreation.

Location of the Source
The river Indus rises in Tibet, near Lake Mansarowar. Lake Mansarowar is a freshwater lake located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The river originates from the northern slopes of the Kailash Mountain range near Mansarowar Lake.

Significance of the Source
The source of the river Indus in Tibet is significant as it marks the beginning of one of the longest rivers in Asia. The Indus River plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of millions of people living in Pakistan and India, as it provides water for irrigation, drinking, and other agricultural activities.

Flow of the River
After rising in Tibet, the river Indus flows through India and Pakistan before emptying into the Arabian Sea. It passes through various regions, including the Himalayas, Punjab, and Sindh, impacting the landscape and communities along its course.

Historical Importance
The river Indus has great historical importance as it was the cradle of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. The civilization flourished along the banks of the river around 3300-1300 BCE, making it one of the earliest urban civilizations in the world.
In conclusion, the source of the river Indus in Tibet near Lake Mansarowar holds immense geographical, cultural, and historical significance. Understanding the origin of this mighty river helps us appreciate its importance in shaping the landscape and supporting human civilization in the region.

(i) Natural lakes: (a) Wular (b) Dal (c) Nainital (d) Bhimtal (f) Loktak (g) Barapani (h) Chilka (i) Sambhar (l) Pulicat.

Definition of Water Divide

A water divide is an upland or a highland that separates two drainage basins. It is also known as a water parting or a watershed. It is an imaginary line that runs along the high point or ridge of a landscape, separating the direction of flow of the surface water from one drainage basin to another.

Explanation

A water divide is a geographical feature that can be found in mountainous regions. It is created by the forces of erosion and weathering that shape the landscape over time. The high point or ridge that forms the water divide separates the flow of water into two different directions, ultimately leading the water to two different drainage basins.

Water divides are important because they determine the direction in which the water flows and the basin that it eventually ends up in. This has implications for water management, as the water from one basin may be used for different purposes than the water from another basin.

For example, the water divide between the Mississippi River and the Colorado River separates two major drainage basins in the United States. The Mississippi River flows eastward towards the Gulf of Mexico, while the Colorado River flows westward towards the Pacific Ocean. The water divide between these two rivers is the Rocky Mountains.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a water divide is an important geographical feature that separates two drainage basins. It is created by the forces of erosion and weathering and is typically found in mountainous regions. Understanding water divides is important for water management and conservation, as they determine the direction in which water flows and the basin that it eventually ends up in.

Drainage Patterns

Drainage patterns refer to the arrangement of streams and rivers in a particular area. These patterns are formed by the natural processes of erosion and the flow of water over the Earth's surface. There are several types of drainage patterns, including dendritic, radial, centripetal, and trellis.

Dendritic Drainage Pattern

The dendritic drainage pattern is characterized by a branching network of streams and rivers, resembling the branches of a tree. It is the most common and widely observed drainage pattern in nature. This pattern develops when a river system flows over a uniform and gently sloping landscape.

Formation of Dendritic Drainage Pattern

The formation of a dendritic drainage pattern occurs when the river channels follow the path of least resistance, eroding through softer rocks and avoiding harder ones. As the water flows downhill, it takes the path of least resistance, creating a pattern of branching streams. This pattern continues to develop as the streams and rivers join together, forming larger rivers and eventually flowing into a main river or body of water.

Characteristics of Dendritic Drainage Pattern

1. Branching: The dendritic pattern is characterized by a branching network of streams and rivers. The smaller tributaries join together to form larger rivers.

2. Uniform Flow: The flow of water is relatively uniform in a dendritic pattern. The streams and rivers follow a similar gradient, resulting in a consistent flow of water.

3. Efficient Drainage: The dendritic pattern is an efficient drainage system as it allows water to flow easily downhill and away from the area. This helps in preventing flooding and erosion.

4. Common in Sedimentary Rocks: Dendritic drainage patterns are commonly found in areas with uniform and gently sloping landscapes, such as those formed by sedimentary rocks.

5. Resistant Rock Formation: The branching pattern of the dendritic drainage system occurs due to the presence of resistant rock formations that create barriers for the water flow.

In conclusion, the drainage pattern resembling the branches of a tree is known as a dendritic drainage pattern. This pattern is formed when rivers and streams follow the path of least resistance, resulting in a branching network of water channels. It is the most common type of drainage pattern observed in nature.

Godavari River
The Godavari River is known as the Dakshin Ganga due to its length and area coverage. Here is why:

Length:
The Godavari River is the second longest river in India after the Ganges, with a length of about 1,465 kilometers. Its extensive stretch makes it comparable to the Ganges, hence earning the title "Dakshin Ganga," which translates to the Ganges of the South.

Area Coverage:
The Godavari River basin covers a vast area of around 312,812 square kilometers, making it one of the largest river basins in India. It flows through the states of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, providing water for irrigation and supporting agriculture in these regions.

Significance:
The Godavari River holds great cultural and economic significance in India. It is considered sacred by many Hindus and is associated with various myths and legends. The river also plays a crucial role in the irrigation of agricultural lands along its banks, contributing to the economy of the regions it flows through.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Godavari River is rightfully called the Dakshin Ganga due to its impressive length, extensive area coverage, and cultural and economic importance. Its significance in the Indian subcontinent cannot be understated, making it a prominent feature in the geography and history of the region.

Length of Mahanadi River:
- The given statement states that the length of Mahanadi River is 860 km. Let's analyze the statement to determine its accuracy.
Evaluating the Statement:
- To determine the accuracy of the statement, we need to verify the length of Mahanadi River.
Fact Check:
- The length of Mahanadi River is indeed 860 km.
Conclusion:
- Based on the fact check, the statement is true.
Explanation:
- The Mahanadi River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the states of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
- It originates from the Sihawa Range of hills in Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh and flows for a length of 860 km before merging into the Bay of Bengal.
- The river is an important water source for irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power generation in the region.
- Therefore, the given statement that the length of Mahanadi River is 860 km is true.

It rises in the Amarkantak hills.

Explanation:




Estuaries:


An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal body of brackish water with one or more rivers or streams flowing into it and with a free connection to the open sea. Estuaries form a transition zone between river environments and ocean environments and are subject to both marine influences, such as tides, waves, and the influx of saline water; and riverine influences, such as flows of freshwater and sediment.




Narmada and Tapi Rivers:


The Narmada and Tapi rivers are two west-flowing rivers that make estuaries. Both rivers originate in the central Indian highlands and flow westwards into the Arabian Sea. The Narmada river flows through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat and empties into the Gulf of Khambhat. The Tapi river flows through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat and empties into the Gulf of Khambhat. The estuaries formed by these rivers are important ecosystems that support a variety of plant and animal life.




Other Options:


The Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers flow eastwards and do not make estuaries. The Tapi river and the Brahmaputra river flow eastwards and do not make estuaries. Hence, the correct option is (a) Narmada and Tapi.

The Godavari flows from North to South in Dharmapuri, hence the river is locally called 'Dakshina Vahini' Kaleshwaram – Sri Kaleswara Mukhteswara Swamy Temple is situated here on the banks of Triveni sangamam of rivers Godavari and pranahita.