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River Network

A river network is a connected system of streams and rivers that drain a specific area of land. Think of it as a branching hierarchy, where smaller tributaries join to form larger rivers, which in turn may feed into even bigger channels or a main river. This network helps direct water runoff, sediments, and nutrients from the land to lakes, seas, or oceans. The structure of a river network influences landform development, ecosystems, and how water moves through the environment, making it vital for understanding water resources, flood risks, and habitat connectivity.