Plain

Plain

A plain is a broad area of flat, or gently undulating, land. Plains are present on every continent and are the dominant landscape type in many regions. They occur as lowlands and at high elevations, in polar regions and in the tropics. In physical geography, a plain is defined as a region of low relief, usually lying between highlands.

Types of Plains

Plains can be classified into two broad categories: structural plains and depositional plains.

Structural Plains

Structural plains are relatively flat regions that have been formed by the geological processes of mountain building, erosion, and deposition. These plains often occur in the interior regions of continents and are usually covered with sedimentary rocks.

Depositional Plains

Depositional plains are formed by the accumulation of sediments from various sources, such as rivers, glaciers, and winds. These plains are often found in coastal and riverine areas.

Formation of Plains

Plains are formed through a variety of earth processes, including erosion, sedimentation, and volcanic activity. The formation of plains involves the flattening of a rugged landscape by the erosional removal of high points and the infilling of low areas with sediment.

Ecology of Plains

Plains are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The specific species present depend on the climate, soil, and other environmental factors of the region. Plains ecosystems can be found in various parts of the world and include grasslands, savannas, and tundra.

Human Use of Plains

Plains have been used by humans for agriculture and settlement for thousands of years. They provide fertile soils for crops and open spaces for the construction of cities and towns.

See Also

• Plateau
• Prairie
• Steppe
• Savanna
• Tundra

References

Plain Resources
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