A continental divide is a natural boundary or ridge that separates the watersheds of major river systems on a continent. Water on either side of the divide flows to different oceans or basins. Continental divides are important in hydrology and geography, as they influence the flow of rivers and the distribution of water resources.
Source Hedman, E. R., & Osterkamp, W. R. (1982). “Streamflow Characteristics Related to Channel Geometry of Streams in Western United States.” Geological Survey Water-Supply Paper 2193.