Plateau and Mountain

You often get confused between plateau and mountain. But there are many differences between the two. Learn all the differences here under one roof.

Mountain and plateau are two words that are often confused because they both describe landforms. But what is the difference between a mountain and a plateau? A mountain is generally taller than a plateau, and it has more of a steep slope. A plateau is a flat area of land that is typically higher in elevation than the surrounding area. So, if you are looking for some breathtaking views, be sure to check out the mountains – but if you want to explore a more diverse landscape, head to the plateaus!

What are the Mountains?

Mountain ranges are created through the collision of tectonic plates. The mountains are a result of uplift and erosion. As the earth’s plates move, the mountains are created. The mountains are home to a variety of wildlife and plants.

What are the Plateaus?

Plateaus are created when the earth’s plates move apart. The plateau is a result of the earth’s surface being stretched and thinned. Plateaus are home to a variety of wildlife and plants.

Types of Plateau and Mountains

There are four types of mountains: fold, fault-block, dome, and volcanic. Plateaus can also be classified into four types: dissected, lava, tableland, and piedmont.

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What is the Difference between a Mountain and a Plateau?

plateau and mountains can be differentiated on the basis of definition, formation, shape, elevation, climate, temperature, elements, population, and climbing ability.

Let’s learn about each one of these in detail.

Definition:

A mountain is a natural elevation of the earth’s surface rising generally to a considerable height, and often forming a distinct peak.

A plateau, on the other hand, is a large, relatively flat area of land.

Formation:

A mountain is formed when two or more tectonic plates collide. The force of the collision causes the earth’s crust to fold and buckle, creating a mountain.

A plateau is formed when an area of the earth’s crust is uplifted by a geological event, such as a volcanic eruption.

Shape:

Mountains are typically long and narrow, with steep sides.

Plateaus, on the other hand, are typically wide and flat.

Elevation:

The elevation of a mountain is its height above sea level.

The elevation of a plateau is its height above the surrounding area.

Climate:

Mountains are colder than plateaus, due to their higher elevations.

The climate at a plateau is typically more temperate, due to its lower elevation.

Temperature:

The temperature at a mountain is colder than the temperature at a plateau.

This is because mountains are closer to the poles, and plateaus are closer to the equator.

Elements:

Mountains are made up of rock, dirt, and ice.

Plateaus are made up of rock and dirt.

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Population:

Mountains have a lower population density than plateaus.

This is because mountains are difficult to inhabit, due to their steep slopes and cold climate.

Climbing Ability:

Mountains are more difficult to climb than plateaus. This is because mountains are steeper and have more treacherous terrain.

There are several key differences between plateau and mountainous. These include their definition, formation, shape, elevation, climate, temperature, elements, population, and climbing ability. Understanding these differences can help you better appreciate the unique features of each.

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Conclusion

When it comes to mountain ranges, there are three main types: fold mountains, block mountains, and volcanic mountains. Fold mountains are created when two or more plates collide. The rocks on the Earth’s surface layer are pushed together and folded up like an accordion. The Rocky Mountains in North America are a great example of a fold mountain range. Block mountains form when one plate pushes against another, causing the rocks on the top to break off and pile up. The Andes Mountains in South America is a good example of a block mountain range. Volcanic mountains are created when magma (molten rock) rises to the surface and solidifies. Mount Fuji in Japan is an excellent example of a volcanic mountain. While plateau and mountains are both large landforms, there are some key distinctions between the two. Plateaus can be found all over the world, while mountain ranges are typically clustered together.

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Get answers to the most common queries related to the UPSC Examination Preparation.

What are mountains?

Answer: Mountain ranges are geological formations that consist of a series of ...Read full

What are plateaus?

Answer: Plateaus are large, flat areas of land that rise sharply from the surr...Read full

What are the main differences between a mountain and a plateau?

Answer: Mountain: A mountain is typically characterized as a tall, steep-sided...Read full

Which are the largest mountains?

Answer: The Himalayas are the largest mountain range in the world. They span over 2400 kilometres and include some o...Read full

Which is the largest plateau?

Answer: The Brazilian Highlands are the largest plateau in the world. They span over 900,000 square kilometres and i...Read full

Which is the largest mountain in India?

Answer: The Nanda Devi is the tallest mountain in India. It stands at 7817 metres tall and is part of the Himalayan ...Read full

Which is the largest mountain in North America?

Answer: Mount McKinley is the tallest mountain in North America. It stands at 20,237 feet tall and is located in the...Read full

Which is the largest plateau in India?

Answer: The Deccan Plateau is the largest plateau in India. It spans over 800,000 square kilometres and includes som...Read full