Where is a radial drainage pattern most likely to form?

A radial drainage pattern typically develops around isolated high points, allowing streams and rivers to flow outward in all directions from that central point. This geological feature is most commonly associated with isolated volcanic cones, where the buildup of lava forms a prominent peak or mountain. The slope of the surrounding terrain directs water runoff away from the top, leading to the distinct radiating pattern as the rivers and streams diverge from the volcanic summit.

In contrast, a coastal plain, flat desert regions, or areas with extensive glacial activity would not produce this specific drainage pattern because they lack the prominent central high point from which water can radiate outward. Coastal plains often have more uniform and less variable landforms, flat desert regions might allow for more diffuse drainage but not radiating patterns, and glacial regions typically host drainage patterns influenced by the previous movement of ice rather than isolated peaks. These contextual clues help solidify the reason radial drainage is associated with the unique topology of volcanic cones.