Which of the following rivers has the largest catchment area?a) Narma...
The correct answer is option 'C', Godavari River.
The Godavari River is the longest river in peninsular India and has the largest catchment area among the given options. Let's explore why the Godavari River has the largest catchment area:
1. Catchment Area: The catchment area of a river refers to the total area from which water drains into the river. It includes all the tributaries and smaller streams that contribute to the flow of water. The larger the catchment area, the more water it can receive and the larger the river becomes.
2. Length: The Godavari River has a total length of about 1,465 kilometers (910 miles), making it the longest river in peninsular India. The length of a river is an important factor in determining its catchment area. Longer rivers tend to have larger catchment areas as they receive water from a larger geographic region.
3. Tributaries: The Godavari River has numerous tributaries, which further contribute to its catchment area. Some of the major tributaries of the Godavari River include the Pranhita River, Indravati River, Manjira River, and Sabari River. These tributaries drain water from their respective regions and add to the overall catchment area of the Godavari River.
4. Geographic Area: The Godavari River flows through several states in central and southern India, including Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. This extensive geographic coverage allows the river to receive water from a large area, thereby increasing its catchment area.
5. Rainfall: The catchment area of a river is also influenced by the amount of rainfall it receives. The Godavari River basin experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which further contributes to the river's catchment area. The rainfall helps in replenishing the river and maintaining its flow throughout the year.
In conclusion, the Godavari River has the largest catchment area among the given options due to its length, numerous tributaries, extensive geographic coverage, and significant rainfall.
Which of the following rivers has the largest catchment area?a) Narma...
The river Godavari arises from the Nasik district of Maharashtra. It has a length of 1465 km and after it, Krishna, Mahanadi, Narmada and Kaveri are the largest rivers of peninsular India.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.