Plateau

Plateau is a geographical term that refers to a flat or gently sloping elevated area that has been uplifted due to geological forces. Plateaus, also known as high plains or tablelands, can be found on every continent and take up a third of the Earth's land. They are one of the four major types of landforms, along with mountains, plains, and hills.

Formation

Plateaus are formed by various geological processes, including upwarping, lava accumulation, and erosion. Upwarping occurs when pressure from below the Earth's crust pushes up a large, flat area of land. Lava plateaus are formed when lava erupts from cracks in the Earth's crust and accumulates over time. Erosion plateaus are created when wind and water wear away the land, leaving behind a flat area.

Types of Plateaus

There are two main types of plateaus: dissected plateaus and volcanic plateaus. Dissected plateaus are formed by erosion and are often found in arid regions, such as the Colorado Plateau in the United States. Volcanic plateaus are formed by numerous small volcanic eruptions that slowly build up over time, such as the Columbia Plateau in the Pacific Northwest.

Ecology

The ecology of plateaus is diverse and varies depending on the altitude, climate, and location of the plateau. Some plateaus, like the Tibetan Plateau, are home to a variety of unique plant and animal species. Others, like the Colorado Plateau, are known for their stunning geological formations.

Human Use

Plateaus have been used by humans for thousands of years for a variety of purposes. They are often used for agriculture, as the flat terrain is ideal for growing crops. Some plateaus, like the Deccan Plateau in India, are heavily populated and have been the site of major cities for centuries.

See Also

• Mountain
• Plain
• Hill
• Geology
• Erosion
• Volcano