Which water runoff pattern resembles the upward branching of a tree?

The water runoff pattern that resembles the upward branching of a tree is known as the dendritic pattern. This pattern is characterized by a network of streams and rivers that branch out in various directions, much like the limbs and branches of a tree. Such a formation occurs in regions where the landscape is uniform, and the underlying geology is relatively homogeneous. As water flows over this terrain, it naturally takes on a branching shape, typically leading to a main stream that bifurcates into smaller tributaries, mirroring the way a tree's trunk divides into branches.

In contrast, other patterns such as the angular, rectangular, and trellis patterns showcase different geological features and flow behaviors. The angular pattern is characterized by sharp bends and angles, often influenced by a grid-like geologic structure. The rectangular pattern typically forms in areas with a significant amount of jointing or faulting in the rock, creating rectangular shapes. The trellis pattern is indicative of underlying geology where alternating bands of hard and soft rock influence the flow of water, creating a pattern that resembles the framework of a garden trellis. Each of these patterns has distinct characteristics that do not resemble the organic, branching structure of a tree like the dendritic pattern does.