Plateaus

Plateaus are extensive regions of relatively flat or gently undulating terrain that rise sharply above adjacent areas. They typically have an elevated topography and a resistant caprock that protects the surface from rapid erosion, producing steep escarpments at their margins. The surfaces may be broad and level, or slightly tilted and dissected by streams. Plateaus occur on continents and beneath the oceans and vary greatly in size, elevation, and climate.

Plateaus form through several processes. Structural plateaus develop when blocks of the crust are uplifted by tectonic forces, often in association with faulting and basin formation. Volcanic plateaus arise from extensive lava flows that solidify into expansive, flat-topped surfaces, such as basalt plateaus. Erosional or peneplained plateaus form when surrounding rock is eroded away leaving a residual high flat surface. Some plateaus are the result of combination processes over geological time.

Characteristic features include caprock, mesas and buttes formed by differential erosion, and inward drainage by rivers and streams. Elevations range from a few hundred meters to several kilometres above sea level. The margins are commonly bounded by steep escarpments or rims.

Examples include the Tibetan Plateau in Central Asia, one of the largest and highest, formed by continental collision; the Colorado Plateau in the southwestern United States, a well-preserved structural plateau with distinct canyons; the Deccan Plateau of India, a vast volcanic plateau arising from ancient lava flows; the Altiplano in the central Andes and the Ethiopian Highlands, high plateaus with significant climatic and ecological importance.

Plateaus influence climate, hydrology, biodiversity, agriculture, and human settlement. Their flat surfaces can support farming and settlements, while their margins host unique ecosystems and spectacular landscapes.