Definitions
- Describing a river or stream that branches off from a main river and flows into a different body of water. - Referring to a channel or waterway that diverts water from a main source to multiple smaller channels or streams. - Talking about a system of waterways that distribute water to various areas for irrigation or other purposes.
- Describing a river or stream that flows into a larger river or body of water. - Referring to a smaller or secondary stream that contributes water to a larger river. - Talking about a source or origin of something that feeds into a larger system or entity.
List of Similarities
- 1Both distributary and tributary are terms used to describe bodies of water.
- 2Both involve the flow of water from one place to another.
- 3Both can be part of a larger system of waterways.
- 4Both can affect the ecology and geography of an area.
- 5Both can be used for irrigation or as a source of water for human use.
What is the difference?
- 1Direction: A distributary flows away from a main river or source, while a tributary flows into a larger river or body of water.
- 2Size: A distributary is often larger than a tributary and can be a significant waterway in its own right, while a tributary is typically smaller and contributes to a larger system.
- 3Purpose: A distributary is often used for irrigation or to distribute water to various areas, while a tributary is primarily a source of water for a larger river or body of water.
- 4Location: A distributary is often found near the mouth of a river, while a tributary can be located anywhere along the course of a larger river.
- 5Impact: A distributary can have a significant impact on the ecology and geography of an area, while a tributary may have a more limited effect.
Remember this!
Distributary and tributary are both terms used to describe bodies of water that flow from one place to another. However, the difference between them is their direction, size, purpose, location, and impact. A distributary flows away from a main river or source, is often larger, and is used for irrigation or to distribute water to various areas. A tributary flows into a larger river or body of water, is typically smaller, and is primarily a source of water for a larger system.
