As the river approaches the sea, the speed of the flowing water decreases and the river begins to break up into a number of streams called ______.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
When a river reaches a sea or lake near its mouth, the velocity of its flow slows down significantly due to the reduced gradient.
At this stage, the river begins to deposit the sediments it has carried along, causing the main channel to divide into several smaller branches.
These divided channels are known as distributaries.
This process constitutes a fundamental part of delta formation.
Conversely, a 'tributary' is a smaller river that flows into and joins a main river. Distributaries carry water away from the main channel.
Answer: Option 1