Mountains
- Definition: Elevated landforms that rise steeply above the surrounding area, typically with a peak or summit.
- Formation: Primarily formed by tectonic plate movements (collision, subduction), volcanic activity, and erosion.
- Characteristics: Steep slopes, high elevation, often rugged terrain.
- Examples: Himalayas, Alps, Andes, Rocky Mountains
2. Plateaus
- Definition: Flat, elevated landforms with steep sides.
- Formation: Formed by volcanic activity, uplift, and erosion.
- Characteristics: Relatively flat tops, often dissected by rivers and canyons.
- Examples: Colorado Plateau, Deccan Plateau, Tibetan Plateau
3. Plains
- Definition: Flat, low-lying areas of land.
- Formation: Formed by deposition of sediments from rivers, glaciers, and wind.
- Characteristics: Gentle slopes, fertile soils, often used for agriculture.
- Examples: Great Plains of North America, Amazon Basin, Indo-Gangetic Plain
These three landforms represent major variations in the Earth’s surface and play significant roles in shaping climate, ecosystems, and human activities.