What occurs at a river confluence?

A river confluence is the point at which two rivers meet and combine their flow, resulting in a single, larger watercourse. This interaction not only signifies the joining of the water from both rivers, but it can also influence the hydrology, sediment transport, and ecology of the area.

This phenomenon is essential in river systems as it can lead to changes in river dynamics, including alterations in flow speed and patterns due to the merging of currents and differing water volumes of the rivers involved. Such confluences can create diverse habitats, impacting fish populations and other wildlife in the region.

The other options refer to different river processes that do not apply to the definition of a confluence, such as splitting or drying up, which are not related to the joining of river flows.