GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -A first-order stream is the smallest of the world’s streams and consists of small tributaries. These are the streams that flow into and “feed” larger streams but do not normally have any water flowing into them.

Detailed explanation-2: -First-order streams are the smallest and are called tributaries as no water flows into them. These waters eventually meet to form rivers, taking on the classification of the most significant contributing stream. Tributaries typically exist on steep slopes and maintain fast streamflow.

Detailed explanation-3: -First-order streams are perennial streams–streams that carry water throughout the year–that have no permanently flowing tributaries. This means no other streams “feed” them.

Detailed explanation-4: -Stream Ordering The uppermost channels in a drainage network (i.e., headwater channels with no upstream tributaries) are designated as first-order streams down to their first confluence. A second-order stream is formed below the confluence of two first-order channels.

Detailed explanation-5: -First-through third-order streams are called headwater streams. Over 80% of the total length of Earth’s waterways are headwater streams. Streams classified as fourth-through sixth-order are considered medium streams. A stream that is seventh-order or larger constitutes a river.