MasteryExams
Geography • World GeographyHard

Which of the following mountain systems forms a major watershed between the rivers flowing into the Arctic Ocean and those flowing into the Pacific Ocean in North America?

A. Appalachian Mountains
B. Rocky Mountains✓ Correct Answer
C. Cascade Range
D. Sierra Nevada

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Rocky Mountains act as the Continental Divide of North America, separating the watersheds that drain westward into the Pacific Ocean from those draining eastward toward the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. The Appalachian Mountains are located in the eastern part of the continent and drain primarily into the Atlantic Ocean. The Cascade Range runs parallel to the Pacific coastline in the Pacific Northwest. The Continental Divide passes through several US states and Canadian provinces along high crests.

🚩 Report a problem