What describes a channel in hydrology?

A channel in hydrology refers to a well-defined pathway that confines streamflow during normal flow conditions. This definition highlights the physical structure that directs water flow, such as riverbanks or the bottom of a stream or river, which maintains the flow of water within specific boundaries. This confinement is essential for understanding the behavior of streamflow, sediment transport, and flood control.

In contrast, the other options depict broader or different concepts. A wide area of floodplain refers to the flat, low-lying region adjacent to a river that is susceptible to flooding but does not specifically define the channel itself. A general term for rivers and lakes encompasses larger bodies of water without addressing the specific nature of a channel. Lastly, terrain surrounding a waterway describes the landscape features adjacent to rivers or streams but does not define the channel's function or form.