Distributary vs. Tributary: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on September 26, 2023
A Distributary is a river branch flowing away from the main stream, while a Tributary is a river or stream flowing into a larger one.
Key Differences
Both Distributary and Tributary refer to river systems, but they represent opposite actions within that system. A Distributary is a branch of a river that flows away from its main course, often found in delta regions. In contrast, a Tributary is a smaller river or stream that feeds into a larger river, adding to its volume.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
The formation of a Distributary is commonly seen in regions where a river deposits sediment as it enters a still body of water, like an ocean or a lake. Over time, this sediment build-up can cause the river to branch out, creating Distributaries. On the other hand, Tributaries can begin from various sources, such as springs or rain runoff, and they join the main river, contributing to its flow.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Distributaries play a crucial role in dispersing the water and sediment from the main river, often aiding in the formation of fertile lands in the delta regions. Tributaries, on the other hand, are essential for supplying water to the main river, ensuring it maintains its flow, especially during dry periods.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
To understand their significance in a river system, one could imagine the main river as a tree. The Distributaries would be analogous to the branches growing outwards, spreading and expanding. In contrast, Tributaries would represent the roots, drawing in water and nutrients to feed the main body.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
In a hydrological context, while Distributaries help in the dispersion and distribution of water, Tributaries are more about the collection and contribution of water and sediments to the primary river system.
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Formation
Often forms in delta regions due to sediment deposition.
Begins from various sources and feeds into larger rivers.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Example
The Mississippi River has several distributaries.
The Missouri River is a tributary of the Mississippi.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Importance
Aids in land formation and dispersal of water.
Crucial for maintaining river flow and volume.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
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Distributary and Tributary Definitions
Distributary
River segment diverting water from the main stream.
A Distributary often reduces the water pressure in the primary river channel.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Tributary
A subsidiary river providing additional water and sediments.
The Tributary played a key role in maintaining the river's flow during the dry season.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Distributary
An offshoot of a river, especially in delta areas.
The Ganges River has a significant Distributary system.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Tributary
A river or stream feeding into a larger one.
The Tributary added fresh water to the main river.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Distributary
A branch of a river flowing away from its main course.
The formation of a Distributary led to increased land fertility downstream.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
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Tributary
A smaller watercourse joining a main river.
The Nile River has several Tributaries that supply it with water.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Distributary
A secondary watercourse splitting from the main river.
The Distributary carries water to multiple regions in the delta.
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
Tributary
An inflow source contributing to a larger river system.
Rainfall in the mountains created a new Tributary.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Distributary
A channel that distributes river water to different areas.
The Distributary ensures that the delta region receives ample water.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Tributary
A water stream that doesn't flow independently to the sea.
This Tributary merges with the main river before reaching the ocean.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Distributary
(hydrology) A stream of water (either natural or artificial) that branches off and flows away from a main stream channel.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Distributary
Tending to distribute or be distributed; that distributes; distributive.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Distributary
A branch of a river that flows away from the main stream and does not rejoin it
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
(hydrology) A natural water stream that flows into a larger river or other body of water.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
(anatomy) A vein which drains into a another vein.
The great saphenous vein is a tributary of the femoral vein.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
Yielding supplies of any kind; serving to form or make up, a greater object of the same kind, as a part, branch, etc.; contributing.
The Ohio has many tributary streams, and is itself tributary to the Mississippi.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
Paying tribute to another, either from compulsion, as an acknowledgment of submission, or to secure protection, or for the purpose of purchasing peace.
[Julius] unto Rome made them tributary.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
Hence, subject; subordinate; inferior.
He to grace his tributary gods.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
Yielding supplies of any kind; serving to form or make up, a greater object of the same kind, as a part, branch, etc.; contributing; as, the Ohio has many tributary streams, and is itself tributary to the Mississippi.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
A ruler or state that pays tribute, or a stated sum, to a conquering power, for the purpose of securing peace and protection, or as an acknowledgment of submission, or for the purchase of security.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
A stream or river flowing into a larger river or into a lake; an affluent.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Tributary
Tending to bring about; being partly responsible for;
Working conditions are not conducive to productivity
The seaport was a contributing factor in the growth of the city
A contributory factor
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
FAQs
What direction does a Distributary flow in relation to the main river?
A Distributary flows away from the main river.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Where are Tributaries commonly found?
Tributaries can be found anywhere along the main river, beginning from various sources.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Do Distributaries reduce the water flow in the main river?
Yes, Distributaries can divert and reduce the water flow in the main river.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can a Distributary be considered a separate river?
While a Distributary branches from the main river, it's considered part of the same river system.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can a river have multiple Tributaries?
Yes, a river can have several Tributaries feeding into it.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Is a Tributary a smaller river?
Yes, a Tributary is typically smaller and feeds into a larger river.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Why are Distributaries important in delta regions?
Distributaries disperse water and sediment, aiding in land formation and nutrient distribution in deltas.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Can human activities influence the formation of Distributaries?
Yes, activities like dam construction can influence water flow and potentially form Distributaries.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
What causes the formation of a Distributary?
Sediment deposition at river mouths, often in deltas, can lead to the formation of Distributaries.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
Are all Tributaries freshwater sources?
Most Tributaries are freshwater sources, but their water quality may vary.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can a Distributary merge back into the main river?
Typically, a Distributary flows away and doesn't merge back, but river courses can change over time.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
Is the water in a Distributary typically fresher than the main river?
The water quality in a Distributary often mirrors that of the main river at the point of divergence.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
Are Tributaries always naturally occurring?
While most are natural, some Tributaries can be man-made, like drainage channels.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Which is larger, a Distributary or a Tributary?
It varies, but generally, a Tributary might be larger than a Distributary.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
Do Tributaries only exist in large river systems?
No, Tributaries can feed into rivers of any size.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
