Describe and account for the difference bettween the drainage pattern of the Indus System and that of the part of Balochistan plateau
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/geography/geography_india_drainage_system.htm
https://www.britannica.com/place/Pakistan/The-Balochistan-plateau
Read carefully.
The drainage patterns of the Indus River system and the part of the Balochistan plateau differ primarily due to differences in geological features and topography. Let me explain how these factors influence the drainage patterns.
The Indus River system is located in South Asia and primarily flows through Pakistan. It is one of the longest rivers in the region and has a well-developed drainage pattern. The main source of the Indus river is the Tibetan plateau, where it originates from the glaciers and mountainous areas. As the river flows southward, it passes through the Himalayas and the Indus River basin. The drainage pattern of the Indus system is characterized by a dendritic layout, where numerous tributaries join to form a main river in a tree-like pattern. This pattern is influenced by the geological structure and the slope of the terrain. The presence of different types of rocks and geological formations in the region contributes to the formation of valleys and gorges, which further shape the drainage pattern.
On the other hand, the Balochistan plateau is a region located in the southwestern part of Pakistan and eastern Iran. It is a vast plateau surrounded by mountain ranges such as the Sulaiman Range and the Makran Range. The topography of this region is relatively flat compared to the Indus River system. The drainage pattern on the Balochistan plateau is primarily influenced by the lack of significant mountain ranges and the limited number of rivers. As a result, the drainage pattern in this area is mainly characterized by intermittent streams, seasonal rivers, and endorheic basins. Endorheic basins are closed drainage basins with no outflow to the sea, typically resulting in the formation of salt flats or lakes.
To account for these differences in the drainage patterns, one needs to consider the geological history, topographic features, and the local climatic conditions of each region. Geological factors such as the types of rocks and their resistance to erosion, as well as the tectonic activity in the area, play a significant role in shaping the drainage patterns. Additionally, the steepness of the terrain, the volume of precipitation, and the presence or absence of major rivers will also impact the drainage patterns in a specific region.
In summary, the differences in the drainage pattern between the Indus River system and the part of the Balochistan plateau can be understood by examining the geological features, topography, and climatic conditions of each region. These factors shape the flow of water, the formation of valleys and gorges, and ultimately influence the overall drainage patterns observed.