The Missouri River
The Missouri River is one of the largest rivers in North America, flowing through the central part of the United States. It is the longest river in the US and the second-longest on the North American continent, after the Mississippi River. The Missouri River is a vital part of the geography and economy of the region, and it has played an important role in the history and culture of the United States.
Basic Geography and Location of the Missouri River
The Missouri River originates in the Rocky Mountains of western Montana and flows east and south for 2,341 miles (3,767 km) before reaching its confluence with the Mississippi River near St. Louis, Missouri. The Missouri River is the longest river in the United States, and it drains an area of about 529,350 square miles (1,371,000 square km), covering parts of 10 states: Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Wyoming, Colorado, and Illinois. The Missouri River has over 50 tributaries, including the Yellowstone River, the Platte River, and the Kansas River.
The Importance of the Missouri River
The Missouri River is an important source of water for irrigation, industry, and municipal use, and it provides habitat for many fish and wildlife species. The river has also been a critical transportation route for centuries, serving as a major trade artery for Native American tribes, early explorers, traders, and settlers. Today, the Missouri River is a major transportation route for barges carrying agricultural products, petroleum, and other goods between the Midwest and the Gulf of Mexico.
The Length of the Missouri River in Miles
The length of the Missouri River in miles is 2,341 miles, making it the longest river in the United States. The Missouri River is longer than the Mississippi River, which is 2,320 miles (3,734 km) long, but it is considered a tributary of the Mississippi River because it flows into it.
Conversion of Miles to Kilometers
To convert miles to kilometers, we can use the following formula: kilometers = miles x 1.60934. This means that one mile is equal to 1.60934 kilometers.
The Length of the Missouri River in Kilometers
Using the conversion formula, we can calculate the length of the Missouri River in kilometers: 2,341 miles x 1.60934 = 3,767 kilometers. Therefore, the length of the Missouri River in kilometers is 3,767 km.
Factors Affecting the Length of the Missouri River
The length of the Missouri River is affected by several factors, including erosion, sedimentation, and changes in water flow. Erosion can cause the river to cut through the landscape and shorten its length, while sedimentation can cause the river to build up and lengthen its course. Changes in water flow, such as droughts or floods, can also affect the length of the river by altering the speed and direction of the water.
Comparison of the Missouri River to Other Rivers
The Missouri River is the longest river in the United States and the second-longest on the North American continent, after the Mississippi River. However, it is not the longest river in the world. The longest river in the world is the Nile River in Africa, which is over 4,000 miles (6,437 km) long.
Significance of the Missouri River’s Length in Kilometers
Knowing the length of the Missouri River in kilometers is important for understanding the geography, ecology, and history of the region. It helps us appreciate the scale and scope of the river and its importance to the people and wildlife that depend on it. The length of the river also has practical implications for navigation, flood control, and water management.
Changes in the Length of the Missouri River Over Time
The length of the Missouri River has changed over time due to natural and human factors. Erosion, sedimentation, and changes in water flow can cause the river to shift and change its course. Human activities such as damming, channelization, and levee construction can also alter the length of the river and its ecological functions.
Conclusion: The Significance of Knowing the Length of the Missouri River in Kilometers
In conclusion, knowing the length of the Missouri River in kilometers is important for understanding the geography, history, and ecology of the region. It helps us appreciate the scale and significance of the river and its importance to the people and wildlife that depend on it. The length of the river also has practical implications for navigation, flood control, and water management. Understanding the factors that affect the length of the Missouri River can help us manage and protect this valuable resource for future generations.
References and Further Reading
- "Missouri River." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 28 Nov. 2021.
- "Missouri River." National Park Service. U.S. Department of the Interior, n.d. Web. 28 Nov. 2021.
- "Missouri River Navigation." U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. U.S. Department of the Army, n.d. Web. 28 Nov. 2021.
- "Length of the Missouri River." USGS. U.S. Geological Survey, n.d. Web. 28 Nov. 2021.
