The Amazon River
The Amazon River is situated within the Amazon rainforest in South America and ranks as the second longest river in the world, following the Nile, with a length of approximately 6,437 kilometers. It is important to note that some experts believe that the lengths of these two rivers are comparable due to two main factors: ongoing debates regarding their true sources and varying measurement methods that lead to discrepancies.
Additionally, the Amazon River holds the distinction of being the fastest river globally, with an average speed estimated at around 2.41 kilometers per hour. It boasts an impressive flow rate of 216,000 cubic meters per second. This speed significantly increases during periods of flooding, where water levels can rise between 12 to 15 meters, and the river’s velocity may reach between 16 to 24 kilometers per hour. This increase can create water walls ranging from 1.5 to 4 meters in height.
The source of the Amazon River is located in the Andes mountains, where high rainfall volumes feed its numerous tributaries, which total about 1,100. Among these, 17 tributaries exceed 1,497 kilometers in length. As such, the Amazon River accounts for one-fifth of the world’s surface water, making it the largest drainage system on the planet.
Geology of the Amazon River
The Amazon River is a structural lowland situated between the crystalline highlands of Guyana and Brazil, and it flows through broad floodplains filled with sediment. Its average channel depth is approximately 50 meters, and the river continuously flows through northern Brazil before reaching the Atlantic Ocean, its primary mouth. Notably, the Amazon River has contributed to the formation of numerous islands within its delta due to the deposition of silt.
Fastest Rivers in the World
Rivers are classified as fast-moving based on their discharge levels. Below are the fastest rivers in the world, following the Amazon:
- Congo River: Located in Africa, the Congo River ranks second in the world in terms of speed and discharge, with an average discharge of about 41,200 cubic meters per second.
- Ganges – Brahmaputra – Meghna Rivers: These Eurasian rivers span approximately 5,425 kilometers and possess an average discharge of around 38,129 cubic meters per second.
- Orinoco River: The Orinoco River has an average discharge of 37,000 cubic meters per second.
- Madeira River: The Madeira River boasts an average discharge of about 31,200 cubic meters per second.