Question

Which landform is a relatively flat area that has high elevation? A. mountain C. coastal plain B. interior plain D. plateau

Short answer

D. plateau.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Characteristics

First, we need to understand the characteristics of the given landform options. A mountain is a large landform that rises prominently above its surroundings and has a peak. A coastal plain is a flat, low-lying area adjacent to a sea coast. An interior plain is a broad flat area located inland, but not specifically elevated. A plateau is a flat, elevated area that rises sharply above the surrounding area on at least one side.

Analyzing the Question Keywords

The question asks for a landform that is 'relatively flat' and has 'high elevation.' This indicates we're looking for a geographical feature that maintains a flat area but is notably above sea level or surrounding terrain.

Matching Characteristics to Options

Match the characteristics identified in Step 1 to the keywords from Step 2. A plateau is the only option that fits both being relatively flat and having a high elevation simultaneously. Mountains are elevated but not flat, plains are flat but not elevated, and coastal plains are flat and low-lying.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis above, the answer that matches the description of a 'relatively flat area that has high elevation' is 'D. plateau.'

Key concepts

plateau

A plateau is an intriguing landform found in many parts of the world. It is characterized by a relatively flat area that stands at a higher elevation than the surrounding landscape. Unlike mountains, which form sharp peaks, plateaus offer broad expanses of level ground. Plateaus can be formed by various geological processes:

• Volcanic Activity: Lava spreading across the land can cool and form a flat, elevated region.
• Erosion: Over time, softer areas can erode away, leaving harder, more resistant layers elevated.
• Continental Collision: Plate tectonics can uplift landmasses, creating plateaus.

Plateaus serve diverse roles in our environment. They can support unique ecosystems, provide fertile lands for agriculture, and often house mineral resources. Examples include the Deccan Plateau in India and the Colorado Plateau in the United States.

geography education

Geography education is essential for understanding the world's physical features and how they impact human life. It involves the study of landforms, climates, ecosystems, and how humans interact with their surroundings. Teaching geography helps students gain insights into:

• The formation and characteristics of different landforms such as mountains, plateaus, and plains.
• The importance of location, place, and space in cultural and economic activities.
• How natural processes like erosion and plate tectonics shape our planet.

Geography education also fosters global citizenship by teaching students about diverse cultural and environmental aspects worldwide. With a strong geographical foundation, students can better understand topics like climate change, resource management, and urban planning.

elevation

Elevation refers to the height of a geographic location above a certain reference point, typically mean sea level. It is an important concept in understanding landforms and the climate of a region. Some key points about elevation include:

• High elevation areas often experience cooler temperatures compared to lower areas due to the thinner atmosphere.
• Elevation influences weather patterns, water flow, and vegetation types.
• Landforms like plateaus, mountains, and valleys are often defined by their elevation relative to surrounding areas.

Understanding elevation is crucial for many fields, ranging from civil engineering and aviation to environmental science and hiking. Knowledge of elevation aids in planning infrastructures like roads and bridges, and in predicting climatic conditions, which can be vital for agriculture and urban development.