Question

Explain how would you distinguish between the following on the basis of contours:

Ridge and Water Divide

Answer 1

Ridge: The highland is long and narrow, with steep slopes on either sides. It has numerous summits. The ridge separates the tributaries that flow towards one side from those that drain towards the other. Ridge contours are elongated and spaced closely. There are peaks and passes across ridges.

Water Divide: A water division is a line separating two drainage basins. The design resembles a ridge, with streams flowing on both sides. The slopes on both sides of a watershed or split must be downhill and opposing. The contours on the steeper side of the ridge are closer together, while those on the gentler side are further apart.