GED Social Studies TestGeography and the WorldMedium
A geographer is examining a region characterized by a large, flat, elevated area with at least one steep side. This landform often forms due to erosion of surrounding softer rock. What geographic feature is being described?
- AVolcano
- BDelta
- CPlateau
- DPeninsula
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Plateau
A plateau is a large area of flat land raised high above the surrounding land, typically with one or more steep sides. This description fits the definition perfectly.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A volcano is a mountain or hill with a vent from which lava, rock fragments, hot vapor, and gas are ejected.
- B. A delta is a landform that forms at the mouth of a river, not a flat elevated area.
- D. A peninsula is a piece of land almost surrounded by water but connected to the mainland on one side.
Plateau
A large, flat, elevated area of land, typically with one or more steep sides, that rises sharply above the surrounding area.
- Flat top surface
- Elevated relative to surroundings
- Often has steep escarpments (sides)
- Can be formed by volcanic activity or erosion
Memory trick: Flat top, steep drop, a plateau's the stop.