Question

How can we classify the river systems of Europe?

Answer 1

Instructions:

• Classify European rivers by the direction of flow.
• List and describe each classification.
• Give examples of important rivers.

Solution:

European rivers can be broadly classified based on their direction of flow into four categories. They are -

• Rivers draining north: These rivers flow northwards and drain into waterbodies like the North Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, the Arctic Ocean, and more. Examples: Rhine river, Seine river, Loire river, and more.
• Rivers draining west: These rivers flow eastwards and drain into waterbodies like the Baltic Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and more. Examples: Guadalquivir river, Tagus river, West Dvina river, and more.
• Rivers draining south: These rivers flow southwards and drain into waterbodies like the Black Sea, the Caspian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. Examples: Dnieper river, Don river, Volga river, and more.
• Rivers draining east: These rivers flow eastwards and drain into waterbodies like the North Sea, the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and more. Examples: Danube river, Po river, Thames river, and more.