Answer:
Rivers and tributaries are both bodies of water, but they have different characteristics and serve different purposes within a larger hydrological system.
A river is a large, natural stream of water that flows towards an ocean, sea, lake or another river. Rivers are typically formed by the convergence of smaller streams and tributaries, and they often have a significant impact on the surrounding landscape and ecosystem. Rivers can be very long and wide, and they can carry a large volume of water.
Tributaries, on the other hand, are smaller streams or rivers that flow into a larger river or body of water. Tributaries can be perennial (flow all year round) or intermittent (flow only part of the year), and they can have different sizes and shapes. Tributaries are an important part of the hydrological cycle and can contribute to the overall flow and health of a river.
In summary, the main difference between rivers and tributaries is that rivers are large, main channels of water that flow towards a larger body of water or the sea, while tributaries are smaller streams that flow into a larger river or body of water. Tributaries can contribute to the overall flow and health of a river, while rivers are often major features of the landscape that have a significant impact on the surrounding environment.