Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology (12th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134074254
ISBN 13: 978-0-13407-425-2

Chapter 16 - Section 16.3 - Streamflow Characteristics - Graphics 16.1 - Page 477: 1

Answer

The Amazon's discharge is so large due to several factors. Firstly, it has an extensive drainage basin that covers a vast area of approximately 7 million square kilometers (2.7 million square miles). This vast basin receives abundant rainfall throughout the year, especially in the Amazon rainforest, which is one of the wettest places on Earth. Additionally, the Amazon River receives water from numerous tributaries, including some large rivers like the Madeira, Negro, and Tapajós, which further contribute to its high discharge. The combination of a large drainage area, heavy rainfall, and numerous tributaries makes the Amazon River the largest in the world in terms of discharge.

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